The WORST Wrestling Story Every Year (1989-2025)

1999 - The Higher Power

higher power vince undertaker
WWE.com

In 1999, two heel factions feuded with another: the Corporation and the Ministry of Darkness.

Meanwhile, Vince McMahon turned babyface. The Undertaker’s disturbing advances towards Vince’s newly-debuted daughter Stephanie drew him and Steve Austin together (!).

The Corporation and the Ministry merged, which compelled members of the former - Mankind, Ken Shamrock, the Big Show and Test - to form the Union. In quite possibly the least credible storyline development of all-time, they - the Union - were briefly joined by Vince McMahon. There was more chance of Vince giving Shannon Moore the WWE title than supporting the rights of his workers.

In dreadful, cringeworthy promo segments, the Undertaker then started referencing a ‘Higher Power’ that governed the Corporate Ministry from the shadows. This mystery was a ratings hit, and the early internet was abuzz. Fans wish-cast various name wrestlers into the role. Some thought Jake Roberts was a great shout; a manager role would have made great use of his sinister verbal delivery. Years later, in what is an embellished story, then-developmental prospect Christopher Daniels was apparently discussed. Can you imagine the Undertaker agreeing to take orders from some short indie guy?

“The day I sell for some flippy asshole is the day these colours run!”

Turns out it was Vince, because of course it was. Vince and ‘Taker were in cahoots all along, just to get one over on ol’ Stone Cold, as was the style at the time.

There were two options, apparently: “Who the f*ck is that guy?”, or “Not this guy again”.

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Contributor
Contributor

Michael Sidgwick is an editor, writer and podcaster for WhatCulture Wrestling. With over seven years of experience in wrestling analysis, Michael was published in the influential institution that was Power Slam magazine, and specialises in providing insights into All Elite Wrestling - so much so that he wrote a book about the subject. You can order Becoming All Elite: The Rise Of AEW on Amazon. Possessing a deep knowledge also of WWE, WCW, ECW and New Japan Pro Wrestling, Michael’s work has been publicly praised by former AEW World Champions Kenny Omega and MJF, and current Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. When he isn’t putting your finger on why things are the way they are in the endlessly fascinating world of professional wrestling, Michael wraps his own around a hand grinder to explore the world of specialty coffee. Follow Michael on X (formerly known as Twitter) @MSidgwick for more!