15 Biggest Political Power Plays By WWE Talents
12. The Original Screwjob
Even before Hogan had reached his zenith, the World Wrestling Federation was among the hottest properties in American pop culture during the 1980s. Hulk obviously played a huge role in that success, but so did the WWF Women's Champion of the time, Wendi Richter.
Richter was vital to the Rock-'n'-Wrestling Connection that helped WWF grow into the sports-entertainment powerhouse it would become, thanks to its early association with MTV. Wendi was supported by pop star Cyndi Lauper in Richter's quest to win the Women's Championship at the original WrestleMania.
According to reports, Richter often had arguments with Vince McMahon over her payouts and compensation. This led to strife backstage between the WWF owner and his top female superstar, culminating in November of 1985.
According to WWE, McMahon had been wanting Richter to sign a new contract with the company but Richter claims she was still working under her original deal of 5 years. Whatever the case may be, McMahon concocted a plan to steal the Women's Championship from Richter in her upcoming match against a hooded wrestler.
The masked female wrestler turned out to be the Fabulous Moolah. Along with Moolah and McMahon, the referee collaborated to fast-count Wendi and, despite Richter kicking out after one, awarded the championship to the Black Widow (aka Moolah).