The world of professional wrestling has often seen crossovers between sports and entertainment, but one high-profile figure who almost joined the WWE family is none other than the infamous Dennis Rodman. In a recent conversation with Conrad Thompson, WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross revealed the events that led to Rodman’s decision to sign with World Championship Wrestling (WCW) instead of the WWE.
A Natural Fit for the Attitude Era
According to Ross, Rodman had been in talks to appear at WrestleMania 13, which was a pivotal moment in the WWE’s history. The event saw Bret Hart face Steve Austin in a Submission Match, marking a turning point in the career of the latter. As for Rodman, he would have been part of a storyline involving Goldust, who was one of the most intriguing characters during the Attitude Era.
At the time, Rodman’s public persona made him a natural fit for the WWE’s edgy and raw aesthetic. He was known for his outrageous behavior, tattoos, and flamboyant style, which would have complemented the WWE’s anti-authority, hard-hitting approach.
The Decision to Join WCW
Despite the promising storyline, Rodman ultimately decided to join WCW, which was a major blow to the WWE. However, as Ross explained, the deal fell through due to creative differences and Rodman’s increasing demands.
“Conrad and I discussed how the whole thing fell apart,” Ross said in the interview. “Dennis wanted more control over his character and the storyline, which the WWE wasn’t willing to give him at the time. He also wanted a larger role in the company, which wasn’t feasible given the structure of the WWE at the time.”
What Could Have Been
The idea of Rodman joining the WWE is a tantalizing one, especially considering the impact he would have had on the Attitude Era. Goldust, who was known for his flamboyant and androgynous character, would have been an ideal opponent for Rodman, and their storyline would have been a must-see spectacle.
Imagine Rodman’s larger-than-life personality, combined with Goldust’s eccentricity, taking center stage at WrestleMania 13. It would have been a match for the ages, with Rodman’s unpredictable behavior and Goldust’s outrageous antics creating a perfect storm of chaos and excitement.
The What-If Scenario
While we’ll never know for certain what would have happened if Rodman had joined the WWE, it’s clear that the decision to join WCW had far-reaching consequences. Rodman went on to become a key figure in WCW’s nWo storyline, which was a major factor in the company’s rise to prominence.
However, for the WWE, the loss of Rodman was a significant blow. The company was still trying to find its footing during the Attitude Era, and the absence of a high-profile figure like Rodman made it harder to compete with WCW.
A Lesson Learned
The Dennis Rodman saga serves as a reminder of the importance of creative control and collaboration in professional wrestling. When talent feels undervalued or disconnected from the direction of the company, it can lead to a breakdown in the working relationship.
As Ross pointed out, the WWE’s decision not to give Rodman more control over his character and storyline was a major factor in his decision to join WCW. This serves as a valuable lesson for the WWE and other wrestling promotions, highlighting the need to prioritize the needs and wants of their talent.
A Legacy That Could Have Been
While Dennis Rodman may not have joined the WWE, his legacy continues to be felt in the world of professional wrestling. His impact on the Attitude Era, particularly in WCW, cannot be overstated.
As for the WWE, the what-if scenario surrounding Rodman’s potential involvement remains a fascinating topic of discussion among fans and insiders alike. It serves as a reminder that, in the world of professional wrestling, even the smallest decisions can have far-reaching consequences.
A Backstage Look
According to a WWE insider, the company’s decision not to pursue Rodman further was a result of concerns about his behavior and attitude.
“The WWE was hesitant to work with Rodman due to his reputation for being difficult to work with,” the source revealed. “They were worried that his antics would create a distraction and negatively impact the product. In the end, it was a decision that ultimately benefited WCW, but it’s a ‘what-if’ that will always be intriguing for fans of the WWE.”
The WWE’s close call with Dennis Rodman serves as a reminder of the intricate complexities and high-stakes nature of professional wrestling. While we may never know what could have been, one thing is certain – the world of wrestling is a fascinating place, full of what-ifs and maybes that continue to captivate fans to this day.