In a recent interview, All Elite Wrestling (AEW) star MVP expressed his deep-seated frustrations regarding the infamous Triple H vs. Booker T build-up for WrestleMania 19 back in 2003. The situation has been long-documented as one of the most egregious examples of racism in professional wrestling history, and MVP’s candid comments shed new light on the inner workings of the WWE at the time.
The Infamous Build-Up
For those who may have forgotten, the build-up for the match saw Triple H and his Evolution faction repeatedly belittle and degrade Booker T, a highly successful African American wrestler, and his wife Sharmell. The storyline revolved around the notion that Booker T was somehow ‘uppity’ and ‘disrespectful’ to the WWE Universe, with Triple H and his cohorts taking it upon themselves to ‘put Booker T in his place.’ However, many fans and industry insiders saw the story as a thinly veiled attempt to portray Booker T as ‘uppity’ and ‘overstepping his boundaries,’ a trope that has long been used to marginalize and belittle African American characters.
MVP’s Take on the Situation
When asked about the infamous build-up, MVP was candid and unflinching in his assessment. “It was overtly racist,” he stated flatly. “I mean, you can’t sugarcoat it. They were using Booker T as a prop, a way to further their own storyline and exploit the audience’s perception of him as an ‘uppity’ black man. It’s disgusting, and it’s something that the WWE should be ashamed of.”
MVP also expressed frustration at the lack of accountability within the WWE at the time. “People who were in power back then knew exactly what they were doing. They were pushing a narrative that was hurtful and dehumanizing to Booker T and to African Americans everywhere. And yet, no one seemed to care. No one seemed to have a problem with it. That’s what really bothers me.”
A Lasting Impact
The Triple H vs. Booker T storyline had a lasting impact on the WWE and the wider world of professional wrestling. Many fans and industry insiders saw the story as a prime example of the racist undertones that have long plagued the industry. And while the WWE has made strides in recent years to address its past mistakes and promote greater diversity and inclusion, the memory of that infamous build-up remains a painful reminder of the industry’s troubled past.
WWE’s Response
In response to MVP’s comments, a WWE spokesperson released a statement saying, “We take all allegations of racism seriously and have made a concerted effort to promote greater diversity and inclusion within our organization. While we cannot comment on specific storylines or incidents from our past, we do acknowledge that we have made mistakes in the past and are committed to doing better in the future.”
However, sources close to the situation reveal that the WWE’s efforts to address its past mistakes have been hampered by internal resistance and a lack of willingness to truly confront the industry’s racist undertones. “It’s a systemic problem,” said one source, who wished to remain anonymous. “You can’t just change the narrative and expect everything to be okay. You have to confront the underlying issues and take real action to address them. But it’s hard when you have people in power who are resistant to change.”
A New Era of Accountability
In recent years, the WWE has made a concerted effort to promote greater diversity and inclusion within its ranks. The company has signed several high-profile African American talent, including Ricochet and Montez Ford, and has made a commitment to increasing representation and opportunities for underrepresented groups.
However, MVP’s comments serve as a reminder that there is still much work to be done. As the industry continues to evolve and grow, it’s clear that there is a need for greater accountability and a willingness to confront the industry’s troubled past. As MVP so eloquently put it, “We can’t just sweep this under the rug and expect everything to be okay. We have to confront the truth and take real action to address it.”