10 Failed WWE Wrestlers Who Became Cult Classics
8. Waylon Mercy
Known latterly for providing much of the inspiration for the original Bray Wyatt persona, Waylon Mercy was lionised more for what he wasn't that what he was. In fact, many of Wyatt's own failings could even be attributed to expectations raised unfairly high by the stellar original nearly two decades earlier.
Dan Spivey was too broken down to stick around on WWE's relentless road schedule, Mercy showed no particular in-ring aptitude in his brief opportunities, and - like every other poor soul on the roster - he certainly didn't draw. He was, however, absolutely f*cking terrifying. In WWE's neon New Generation, this was extremely useful.
Decked all in white to subvert his dark arts, Mercy's promos were equally grisly behind a friendly conceit. Aping Cape Fear's serial killer Max Cady in cadence and delivery, Mercy was a tremendous tribute for those fans that knew and a legitimate horrorshow for those that didn't.
His vignettes surviving beyond his matches enhanced the appeal - it's impossible to watch one now and not want to see how this sinister, seething sociopath would do against all your faves.