There are few wrestlers who have mastered the backstage politics to the level that Triple H has over the course of his career. Whether it was as part of the Kliq, setting himself and his friends up for monumental success, or wading through the landmines that existed after word of his relationship with Stephanie McMahon surfaced, The Game has proven time and time again to be a master manipulator. Need further proof? Check out the years 2002 and '03, when he was still struggling to return to form following his quadriceps tear and subsequent addition of unneeded muscle mass. Watch how, despite being part of some truly wretched championship bouts, he systematically defeated every major babyface Raw had to offer. Rob Van Dam, Booker T, Scott Steiner, Kane and Goldberg were beaten down and ruined as prospective headliners, all to feed the insatiable ego of the industry's most masterful politician. As one of the bosses of the company, Triple H may not need to protect his own spot any longer, but that will not stop him from putting himself over when the opportunity arises. Right, Sting? As a businessman, he can use that political maneuvering to help close business deals that best suit the company, while also schmoozing talent from around the world, making promises to them if they sign on the dotted line. A trait that earned him the scorn of Internet wrestling fans once upon a time, it could very well be the trait that fuels his reign as the all and powerful in the near future.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
