Now 50 years old, the legend of mixed martial arts that is Bas Rutten finished up on an incredible winning streak: 21 victories and 1 draw at the tail end of a 28-4 MMA career, 16-2 in kickboxing. He has nothing more to prove anywhere. Well, almost anywhere. Lets not kids ourselves we dont necessarily see El Guapo setting foot in the squared circle and taking on Dolph Ziggler (although...). But hes Bas Rutten! His hardcore reputation is only preceded by his manic charisma and sense of humour. In his prime, a strike from Rutten could and did put opponents in hospital and people were genuinely scared to fight him, while his off the wall mic skills are evident to anyone whos seen him interviewed or heard his frequent colour commentary. As the manager to a favoured WWE superstar, or as the head of a powerful stable, Rutten couldnt help but be magnificent. A quality manager is often overlooked as a device for getting a performer or group of performers over: look at Paul Heyman and his tireless efforts to put Lesnar over as an unstoppable killing machine, or Ted DiBiases effortless heel work representing a host of wrestlers with less than stellar personalities. Bobby The Brain Heenan, Paul Bearer, Lana, Jimmy Hart, Sensational Sherri Martel the list goes on and on and on. Todays discerning and passionate WWE fans love an idiosyncratic persona or gimmick played to perfection almost as much as they love a five star classic match. Its how Aaron Damian Mizdow Haddad has got over with the crowd, despite almost total burial by management. Its how CM Punk smashed through the glass ceiling when the office wanted him gone from the company. A man of Bas Ruttens loopy charm and cheerful menace could help the WWE make some serious money.
Professional writer, punk werewolf and nesting place for starfish. Obsessed with squid, spirals and story. I publish short weird fiction online at desincarne.com, and tweet nonsense under the name Jack The Bodiless. You can follow me all you like, just don't touch my stuff.
