10 Things You Learn Binge Watching Every WWE SmackDown From 1999
1. The WWF Muted “Jericho” Chants
It's well-known by now that Chris Jericho's jump from WCW to the WWF wasn't exactly smooth. His debut was red hot (albeit not as good in hindsight), but his first few months were rough - Jericho noted in his books that he had scorching heat backstage with almost everyone, and said Vinnie Mac told him his contract wasn't worth the paper it was printed on.
At least the fans had his back. The production team didn't though.
There are several moments during the first 18 episodes of SmackDown that show up company booking. The WWF pinned Jericho as a hated heel and programmed him against MMA bad ass Ken Shamrock. The problem? Fans already liked 'Y2J' and bombarded segments with chants. The truck had to mute those in post-production.
Pressure would tell by the end of the year. The company had no choice but to turn Jericho babyface and embrace the love. It's weird to listen back and literally hear them turn the volume dial down after a few "Jericho! Jericho!" refrains.
What caught your eye from SmackDown's first year on the WWE Network? For more like this, check out 10 Things You Learn Binge Watching Every WWE Raw From 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998 and 1999!