8 Most Pathetic Examples Of Backstage Politics In Wrestling
2. Triple H Accosts Writer
Triple H was superb at the political game; the man was nowhere near Steve Austin nor the Rock in terms of ability nor box office muscle, and is still promoted to this day as their Attitude Era equal. He is stigmatised in many circles as a defensive, brazen loser who married his way into the main event and, subsequently, the office. But that’s better than being known as an also-ran, isn’t it?
Triple H had more range in politics than he did in the ring. Triple H was clever enough to claim responsibility for Batista’s success, but he was also so desperate to maintain control over his spot that he once, reportedly, took the most direct route imaginable to getting what he wanted.
Some political plays are really quite clever. Hulk Hogan, pointing to the sky as if God himself, and not the Ultimate Warrior, had defeated him at WrestleMania 6? That’s good stuff. Cody Rhodes pointing at Roman Reigns at the end of the 2024 Royal Rumble match, in order to make it very difficult for WWE not to deliver that match at WrestleMania 40? Delightfully devilish. Chris Jericho positioning himself as the guy to beat to get to the next level in AEW - only to appear on the next pay-per-view where the guy who beats him often doesn’t - is a great bit.
Triple H, according to an interview with a former WWE creative writer conducted by Power Slam magazine, marched over to him and demanded to read that week’s Raw script. He had one simple question: “Am I f*cking going over?!”
The writer said “kind of”, which displeased Triple H, who asked for clarity. The writer said that Triple H was losing, but via DQ, so he’d retain his World title.
Triple H then removed the page from the script which, when finalised the next day, listed a different finish. Triple H was going f*cking over.
Clean.