10 Reasons Why JBL Is WWE's Most Controversial Figure

1. Contradicting The Be A STAR Initiative

JBL Podium
WWE.com

Be A STAR is an ongoing anti-bullying initiative first launched by WWE in 2011 that, in the company's words, has the mission of encouraging young people "to treat each other with respect through education and grassroots initiatives."

It's a noble goal, and there's no doubt that the campaign has benefited countless children across the United States, but it doesn't exactly mix with JBL. His status as a WWE employee completely contradicted the entire campaign if any of the allegations levied against him are true, and given that Stephanie McMahon once tweeted that WWE see their philanthropic endeavours as a marketing strategy, it's easy to see the hypocrisy.

Be A STAR's own website speaks out against the torment, threats, harassment, and humiliation that children face in schoolyards and online, but what if the stories of JBL triggering Mauro Ranallo's depression and stealing Justin Roberts' passport are true? Doesn't this make a sham of the whole campaign?

JBL's presence within the company brought discredit to the Be A STAR initiative, and WWE themselves. It's disingenuous to promote an anti-bullying campaign when you employ a man like Bradshaw, who faced dozens of allegations throughout his tenure, and fans were right to call them out on this.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.