WWE: Does Pro Wrestling Need Mystery in Storylines?

Mystery debuts seem to always be a hit with fans, if the identity of the Superstar who is debuting is not widely known by them before it happens. Take for example Kurt Angle's debut in TNA. For weeks leading up to the No Surrender 2006 PPV there was word that a 'Big Surprise' would be occurring at the event. It came as a massive shock when the multiple time former WWE Champion was revealed through a video package on the night, very shortly after leaving the rival company. Because this was such a well guarded secret from fans, the announcement made huge waves with fans and critics, and can certainly be seen as one if the more successful reveals to a surprise. But was it the Superstar name of Kurt Angle that gave this such a positive response? It certainly added to the shock value, but it wouldn't seem it is entirely necessary to have a huge name in order to get this quality of reception. When Chris Jericho debuted in the WWF in 1999, he certainly didn't hold the name value he does now amongst Wrestling fans. He was certainly known for his work throughout Japan and WCW, and was a recognisable face, but he wasn't on the level of stardom Angle had when he jumped ship in 2006. In this case, the parallel to the Angle reveal was mainly in the fact that nobody seemed to really know who it would be. The WWF had done a great job building up the anticipation of the reveal with a weekly countdown to the moment, which is not an easy thing to do other a lengthy period. This however is something that will be touched on further on in this article.
 
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A watcher of Professional Wrestling since 1989, in that time has filled up too much of his mind with knowledge of the subject. Tries to see Wrestling from the viewpoint of all types of fan, once refereed an event during his teenage years and got a grazed chin from a Superkick to the face. Follow his daily musings on Twitter - @lmheir