Story: In late-1995, Leon White became involved in a backstage scuffle with Paul Orndorff. Coming out on the losing side, Vader would go back for more. Again, he was pushed back by the determined Orndorff, who was resolute that he wouldn't cave in to the bigger man. The incident was said to be Vader's fault, and he was punished in the ultimate fashion. Effectively, fighting with Paul Orndorff would cost Vader his job in WCW, and he'd be shunted out the door shortly thereafter. Joining the WWF in January, 1996, Vader's hard man image had taken a knock due to the incident. Why People Believe It: This is a popular story. Both men have talked about the fight during interviews, although Leon White is the one who appears most sorry about the lead-up to the brawl. Admitting that he was drinking a lot at the time, Vader says he never should have slapped Orndorff and necessitated a physical response. Should We Believe It: Yes. Vader was late for a show, and Orndorff - as a road agent - gave him a dressing down for it. According to Vader, he was busy doing a photoshoot, as per instruction from Eric Bischoff. Orndorff wasn't aware of this, and it was simply a misunderstanding.
Lifelong wrestling, video game, music and sports obsessive who has been writing about his passions since childhood. Jamie started writing for WhatCulture in 2013, and has contributed thousands of articles and YouTube videos since then. He cut his teeth penning published pieces for top UK and European wrestling read Fighting Spirit Magazine (FSM), and also has extensive experience working within the wrestling biz as a manager and commentator for promotions like ICW on WWE Network and WCPW/Defiant since 2010. Further, Jamie also hosted the old Ministry Of Slam podcast, and has interviewed everyone from Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels to Bret Hart and Trish Stratus.
