10 Wrestlers Who Turned Down WWE Contracts

7. Terry Funk

Sting Darby Allin
WWE

After the roaring success of their retrospective Rise and Fall of ECW DVD in 2004, WWE decided to capitalise on fresh interest in Paul Heyman's hardcore outfit by running, what they planned to be, a one-off special reunion show. Emanating from New York's Hammerstein Ballroom, the homecoming aimed to be as authentic as possible, uniting a throng of ECW originals, including some WWE had hitherto been apprehensive to employ including The Sandman and Sabu.

There was, however, one notable absentee: Terry Funk. The irrepressible 'middle aged and crazy' legend had played a crucial role in helping transform the struggling Eastern Championship Wrestling into the cult renegade group it became, sparing his time and his body for the cause.

Yet, when Heyman came calling in 2005, Funk surprisingly rebuffed him. It wasn't anything personal - well, not against Paul, at least. The hardcore vet had already agreed to work Shane Douglas' Hardcore Homecoming show, and, not wanting to help McMahon exploit the ECW name for profit, saw it as a worthier date.

Until the next year at least. Having seen how faithful the first One Night Stand was, Funk agreed to take part in the sequel.

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Editorial Team

Benjamin was born in 1987, and is still not dead. He variously enjoys classical music, old-school adventure games (they're not dead), and walks on the beach (albeit short - asthma, you know). He's currently trying to compile a comprehensive history of video game music, yet denies accusations that he purposefully targets niche audiences. He's often wrong about these things.