http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbszVMpAh94 Once he started to feel better about himself, Jake started a campaign to make his big comeback at the 2014 Royal Rumble. While I certainly didn't believe that would happen, I could not deny the heartwarming effect that Jake's optimism was having on the new (and old) generation of fans. I shouldn't have been surprised by how quickly the almost-60 year old Roberts took to social media. His positive messaging and realism struck a chord, even with fans who'd never heard of The Snake Pit. On a night when we cheered for the ever-present cast of characters who show up for Old School Raw (and for that matter, are backstage at the WWE shows every night anyways, as per their contracts), Jake's appearance meant so much more. There are probably more redemption stories than this one, but no one can deny how far Jake has come. From the ridiculous high of WrestleMania III, to the gut-wrenching low of bartering your name for crack cocaine, Jake "The Snake" Roberts has somehow managed to triumph. He doesn't need to be in the Royal Rumble. I don't want to see him there either; it's not the place for him regardless of how much better he feels. The shock of seeing him on Raw, and the joy of seeing him look so healthy, were the perfect sentiments to cap off Roberts' career. Thanks for always keeping us guessing, Jake. We all wish you well.
Follow me @kickyhick :) I hold a degree in English Rhetoric & Professional Writing from the University of Waterloo in Canada. I've done technical writing, executive presentations, and recruiting materials for BlackBerry, and I write for non-profit organizations. My favourite project so far has been combining my passion for writing with being a die-hard wrestling fan. It's a pleasure to write here for WhatCulture, and also for TJRwrestling.com.