10 Times WWE Turned Trash Into Treasure

9. Floyd Mayweather

Becky Lynch Ronda Rousey
WWE Network

Typically, casual crowds react favourably to celebrities in the pro wrestling arena, hence why they are almost invariably presented as babyfaces. Perhaps "traditionally" is the more appropriate word, because the Guest Host Era of RAW put wrestling fans off that idea.

But there's also Floyd Mayweather: a grotesquely unlikeable personality people endured for years as a mega box office attraction because they were so desperate to see somebody actually get a punch in. But, being little, WWE initially presented 'Money' as an underdog babyface character. This development was panned, and, with mainstream eyes on the company, WWE altered the trajectory and turned the heel heel.

The potential disaster materialised as a genuine triumph - arguably, the most entertaining use of a non-wrestler in WWE history. Mayweather was in prime pr*ck mode at WrestleMania XXIV, evading Big Show's lumbering offence with a mugging grin plastered over his face in a smoke and mirrors masterclass. He then sold for Show, delivering the catharsis even in victory.

Even boxing fans probably cite this as the most entertaining thing Floyd has ever been a part of.

Contributor
Contributor

Michael Sidgwick is an editor, writer and podcaster for WhatCulture Wrestling. With over seven years of experience in wrestling analysis, Michael was published in the influential institution that was Power Slam magazine, and specialises in providing insights into All Elite Wrestling - so much so that he wrote a book about the subject. You can order Becoming All Elite: The Rise Of AEW on Amazon. Possessing a deep knowledge also of WWE, WCW, ECW and New Japan Pro Wrestling, Michael’s work has been publicly praised by former AEW World Champions Kenny Omega and MJF, and current Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. When he isn’t putting your finger on why things are the way they are in the endlessly fascinating world of professional wrestling, Michael wraps his own around a hand grinder to explore the world of specialty coffee. Follow Michael on X (formerly known as Twitter) @MSidgwick for more!