In a recent conversation with a WWE-focused podcast, Chris Jericho revealed the surprising story behind a pitch he made to Vince McMahon that ultimately fell flat. The pitch in question involved a unique storyline that brought together The Wyatt Family and the legendary Shawn Michaels.
A Pitch That Went Horribly Wrong
According to Jericho, the idea was born out of a post-dinner conversation with Shawn Michaels at a wrestling event. The two began discussing the possibility of creating a storyline that would see The Wyatt Family, then a relatively new faction, cross paths with the charismatic and aging Michaels. Jericho, ever the storyteller, saw an opportunity to create something unique and compelling.
“I was at dinner with Shawn, and we were talking about The Wyatt Family,” Jericho explained. “I said, ‘Man, they’d be perfect for a storyline with you.’ Shawn was like, ‘I’m game.’ And I said, ‘Let’s run it by Vince.’ So, I went to Vince with the idea, and he just looked at me and said, ‘Chris, you know what this reminds me of?’ And I’m like, ‘What’s that?’ And he says, ‘A bad cut of meat.'”
Jericho’s face lit up as he recalled the moment, chuckling at the absurdity of it all. “Vince is a meat guy, and I’m like, ‘What’s wrong with the cut of meat?’ He’s like, ‘It’s just not good, Chris.’ And that was it. The conversation was over.”
The What-If Scenario
While the pitch itself may have been rejected, the possibilities presented by the idea are endless. A storyline featuring The Wyatt Family and Shawn Michaels could have been a game-changer for both factions. Michaels, who had recently reunited with Triple H in D-Generation X, could have used his experience and charisma to help navigate the complex dynamics of The Wyatt Family. Meanwhile, The Wyatt Family, who were still finding their footing in the WWE at the time, could have benefited from Michaels’ guidance and mentorship.
“It would have been a fascinating dynamic,” said a WWE insider. “Shawn Michaels is a master of the ring, and The Wyatt Family was still finding its footing. It would have been a great way to showcase their talents and create a compelling storyline.”
A Backstage Perspective
According to sources close to the situation, Vince McMahon’s rejection of the pitch was not entirely unexpected. While McMahon is known for his willingness to take risks, he is also notoriously protective of his roster. The idea of pairing The Wyatt Family with Shawn Michaels may have been seen as too unconventional, too unpredictable.
“Vince likes to keep things on a tight leash,” said a source. “He’s always looking for ways to create a clear narrative and build towards a specific story. The idea of pairing The Wyatt Family with Shawn Michaels was just too wild card for his taste.”
A Look Back at The Wyatt Family
In the years since the pitch was rejected, The Wyatt Family has undergone a significant transformation. The faction, which once seemed poised to become one of the WWE’s top acts, has struggled to find its footing. Luke Harper and Erick Rowan, the two original members of the family, have since departed the WWE, leaving Bray Wyatt to carry the torch.
Despite the challenges they’ve faced, The Wyatt Family remains one of the most beloved factions in the WWE. Their unique blend of horror and chaos has captivated audiences, and their ability to create a sense of unease has made them a staple of the WWE’s roster.
In the end, while the pitch may have been rejected, the legacy of The Wyatt Family lives on. And who knows? Maybe one day, we’ll see a storyline featuring The Wyatt Family and Shawn Michaels. Until then, we can only speculate on what could have been.
A Legacy of Rejection
Chris Jericho’s story is just the latest example of a pitch that went horribly wrong. In an industry where ideas are constantly being floated and rejected, it’s not uncommon for pitches to fall flat. But it’s the what-ifs that make the story so compelling.
As for Jericho, he’s not one to dwell on what could have been. Instead, he’s focused on the present, using his experience and expertise to create compelling storylines and entertain the WWE’s audience.
“It’s all just part of the job,” Jericho said with a smile. “You pitch ideas, and sometimes they stick. Sometimes they don’t. But at the end of the day, it’s all about creating something special for the fans.”