10 Reasons Why JBL Is WWE's Most Controversial Figure

9. Shooting On The Blue Meanie

JBL Podium
WWE

ECW One Night Stand 2005 was one of the year's hottest pay-per-views. A fitting tribute to the most iconic cult wrestling promotion of all-time, it wasn't a night of five-star matches, but one elevated to an elite level by passion, nostalgia, and a rabid, partisan crowd.

Unfortunately, ONS didn't end without unwanted controversy. Heelish WWE invaders were drawn to the ring after the night's main event, with ex-ECW man Steve Austin inciting them on the microphone. A huge WWE vs. ECW brawl broke out, and while the home team were able to clear the ring, the Blue Meanie emerged battered and bloodied.

JBL deliberately targeted Meanie during the melee, then bludgeoned him to such an extent that he needed 12 stitches after the show. The provocation? Meanie had reportedly said something Bradshaw didn't like long before the PPV, and John saw this as an opportunity to teach him a lesson.

It was a disgusting act, and one that attracted immediate media attention, with JBL at the heart of it. Bradshaw did eventually apologise, and he and Meanie have long since buried the hatchet, but the incident shouldn't have happened in the first place.

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Channel Manager

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.