10 Most Wasted WWE Royal Rumble Spots
8. Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler (Royal Rumble 1997)
The Royal Rumble match often features bits of comic relief, making them a trope of the contest. While they may be expected, the moments don't always go unscathed by the ire of avid fans. In order to make the match interesting, a handful of big-names are required. The other spots, though, should be opportunities for new and underutilized performers to show off their skills.
Accordingly, it was wasteful to slide Jerry Lawler into the 1997 Rumble match. The spot he occupied could have been used to give the rub to younger talent, but instead, it was sacrificed for a few seconds of slapstick only your grandparents could have appreciated.
Considering their long-term rivalry, it only made sense that 'The Hitman' eliminated 'The King' from the annual battle royal. The execution, on the other hand, caused many onlookers to shake their heads.
Lawler somehow surprised his co-commentator, (and WWE Chairman) Vince McMahon, by sneaking into the Rumble. On his way into the ring, he began with his catchphrase "It takes a King..." before being eliminated by Hart within seconds. When he returned to his chair, he finished the thought and acted as though nothing happened. Sure the amnesia gags were good for a couple of chuckles, but it hardly justified wasting a Royal Rumble entry.