10 Times WWE Didn't Realise Greatness Was Staring Them In The Face
7. Dustin Rhodes
Dustin Rhodes has been tremendous value in AEW but there’s no reason why he couldn’t have been making a similar contribution in WWE.
Seemingly, creative had nothing for him, unable to see anything beyond an ageing performer in a tired gimmick. At a time when they still weren’t releasing anybody, WWE were happy to let him go.
Ric Flair’s final run aside, WWE have often struggled booking veteran performers. They tend to present them as the same powerhouses they always were (Goldberg, Triple H, The Undertaker) or else shunt them quietly aside.
By contrast, AEW has presented the former Goldust as a hugely sympathetic ageing veteran. His experience, shown through his crisp and savvy ring work, informs his victories or the credibility lent to those who beat him. His age and legacy make him a sentimental favourite crowds can’t help but root for when he’s selling.
The thing is, AEW haven’t done anything particularly revolutionary here. They’ve just wiped away the gold face paint to reveal the still great talent that was there all along.