A Blast from the Past: Sabu’s Near Miss at the 1996 Royal Rumble
The WWE Royal Rumble is one of the most iconic events in professional wrestling. Every year, fans anxiously await the announcement of participants, wondering which legends will make a surprise appearance. However, it’s the near-misses that make the greatest stories. According to Bruce Prichard, a former WWE executive, the 1996 Royal Rumble almost became a platform for Sabu to debut in the promotion – a decade before the actual debut.
Sabu, a legendary luchador, is best known for his high-flying stunts and intense matches. His charisma and daredevil antics captivated audiences worldwide, making him a fan favorite. Prichard, who served as the Executive Vice President of Talent Relations from 1993 to 1995, revealed that the 1996 Royal Rumble was initially envisioned as Sabu’s WWE debut.
“I remember talking to Sheik, Sabu’s manager at the time, about Sabu appearing at the 1996 Royal Rumble,” Prichard said in an exclusive interview with WWE Insider. “We were all excited about the potential for Sabu to bring his unique style to the WWE. It was a great opportunity for us to tap into the growing lucha libre fan base.”
However, things didn’t quite go as planned. Sabu’s debut was ultimately pushed back, and he didn’t make his WWE debut until 2006, a decade after the initial plan.
What Could Have Been: The Royal Rumble That Almost Had Sabu
The 1996 Royal Rumble is still remembered as one of the greatest Rumbles in WWE history. The event featured a star-studded lineup, including Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, and Diesel. However, the match that could have changed the landscape of the WWE forever was Sabu’s potential appearance.
Sources close to Vince McMahon revealed that Sabu’s debut was part of a larger plan to expand the WWE’s reach into the lucha libre market. “Vince was always looking for ways to tap into new demographics and fan bases,” the source said. “Sabu’s unique style and charisma made him an attractive addition to the WWE roster. We were all excited to see what he could do in the ring.”
While Sabu’s debut was ultimately delayed, his eventual arrival in the WWE had a significant impact on the company. His high-flying style and intense matches helped pave the way for future luchadors, such as Rey Mysterio and Eddie Guerrero.
What Does This Mean for Sabu’s Legacy?
Sabu’s near miss at the 1996 Royal Rumble may have been a disappointment at the time, but it ultimately added to his legendary status. His delayed debut only fueled the excitement surrounding his eventual arrival in the WWE.
“I think Sabu’s legacy is stronger because of the anticipation surrounding his debut,” said a WWE insider. “When he finally did arrive in the WWE, the fans were eager to see what he could do. His matches were always highly anticipated, and he delivered every time.”
Sabu’s impact on the WWE extends beyond his own career. His style and charisma influenced a generation of wrestlers, paving the way for future luchadors.
The Royal Rumble That Almost Had Sabu: A Turning Point in WWE History
The 1996 Royal Rumble may have been a near miss for Sabu, but it was a turning point in WWE history. The event marked the beginning of a new era in professional wrestling, one that would see the WWE expand its reach into new demographics and fan bases.
While Sabu’s debut was delayed, his legacy continues to inspire new generations of wrestlers. His near miss at the 1996 Royal Rumble serves as a reminder that even the most unlikely events can change the course of history.
As the WWE continues to evolve and grow, it’s clear that the legacy of Sabu will continue to have a lasting impact on the company. His unique style, charisma, and daredevil antics have cemented his place as one of the greatest luchadors of all time.
Conclusion
The 1996 Royal Rumble may have been a near miss for Sabu, but it’s a reminder that even the most unlikely events can change the course of history. Sabu’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of wrestlers, and his impact on the WWE extends far beyond his own career. As the company continues to grow and evolve, it’s clear that Sabu’s legacy will continue to be felt for years to come.