10 WWE Gimmicks Wrestlers Refused
9. Harley Race Axed Vince McMahon's Hangman Idea
Harley Race is undoubtedly one of the greatest professional wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots. Sadly, the eight-time NWA Worlds Champion was a shell of his former self by the time he landed in the then-WWF in 1986.
A 43-year-old who'd already amassed a 26-year in-ring career by the time of his WWF arrival, injuries and a lifetime of bumps had taken their toll on the legendary Harley. Still, Harley Race was Harley Race - one of the best of all-time who still had star power.
While Race would be given an early King of the Ring win in order to go by the 'King' Harley Race mantle, he was first offered the gimmick of 'Hangman' Harley Race. Vince McMahon wanted Race to carry a noose to the ring and wear a Lone Ranger-esque mask as part his his Hangman shtick.
Deciding that would look ridiculous, Race politely turned down McMahon's offer. Instead, he suggested dying his hair blond and going by 'Handsome' Harley Race - with the two parties eventually settling on the idea of 'King' Harley Race.
That Hangman gimmick would find its way to WWF TV, of course, with Jesse Barr being turned into Jimmy Jack Funk.