9 Best WWE Attitude Era Gimmick Changes

Sometimes in wrestling the greatest things happen simply by accident. A million-dollar catchphrase can result from an off-the-cuff remark. A devastating finishing maneuver can come about due to a fortuitous botch. And, sometimes, a winning character can catch fire due to some very real behind-the-scenes business.

Such was the case with the creation of Mr. McMahon, who became the most despised heel in the wrestling world in the wake of the Montreal Screwjob. After being outed as the man behind the most controversial episode in sports entertainment history, Vince had no choice but to embrace the jeers and become an on-screen performer.

It's not like he could remain a ringside commentator/interviewer after the 1997 Survivor Series. That had been Vince's role until then, but Montreal changed all of that. Incredibly, Vince thought he would be embraced as the babyface in the aftermath of it all, looked at as the noble promoter saving his company from a power-mad tyrant.

Obviously wrestling fans had a little more sympathy for the man who had just had his legacy p*ssed on after thirteen years of tireless service.

As 1998 wore on, McMahon began inserting himself more and more into the storylines, hell-bent on stopping the renegade Stone Cold Steve Austin from ruining the image of his company. Vince was a revelation in the role, hamming it up with glee and constantly putting his body on the line for the sake of the business.

It was a far cry from the guffawing announcer who didn't know the proper names for about half of the wrestling holds or moves he was attempting to call.