10 Reasons Why JBL Is WWE's Most Controversial Figure

8. His Horrendous Commentary

JBL Podium
WWE

Believe it or not, JBL was actually a decent commentator in the early days. Attentive, authoritative, and genuinely funny at times, he was a welcome break from the norm, and built a sizeable following among those sick of Michael Cole and his ilk. Unfortunately, Bradshaw's announcing took a dramatic U-turn a few years into his new role, and he became an unwanted distraction on the shows he commentated, actively detracting from their overall presentation.

A big, boorish blowhard, Bradshaw thought nothing of brutally burying competitors and colleagues alike. From tearing The Ascension to pieces soon after their arrival to completely ruining Sting's long-awaited WWE debut by screaming his lungs out, the man's crimes are many, and SmackDown should be an infinitely more watchable show now that he's gone.

It was often said that JBL was "the voice of the company" during his run as an announcer. His words were really Vince McMahon's, and if Bradshaw expressed an opinion, it was usually in-line with what the Chairman was thinking. This makes sense, as JBL would typically target those outwith with sphere of WWE's handpicked top stars, but it doesn't compensate for years of awful announcing.

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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.