As Vince McMahon reasserts himself as Executive Chairman of WWE, speculation has risen regarding the potential impact on the company’s creative direction. Amidst this speculation, a former WWE writer, Andrew Goldstein, has shed light on a peculiar incident that may serve as a sign of McMahon’s influence on the company’s content.
On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of Monday Night Raw, fans were treated to a surprise appearance by The Undertaker. However, unlike his usual entrance, The Deadman did not make his iconic long walk to the ring, but rather arrived on a motorcycle, reviving the American Badass version of his character.
Vince McMahon Wasn’t A Fan Of The American Badass
Goldstein, who commented on the appearance on social media, revealed that he was once warned not to mention The American Badass version of The Undertaker in front of Vince McMahon during a creative meeting. He stated,
“True story: I once mentioned in a WWE creative meeting that I loved the American Badass and Bruce quickly shushed me and advised me NEVER to mention that in front of Vince.”
True story: I once mentioned in a WWE creative meeting that I loved the American Badass and Bruce quickly shushed me and advised me NEVER to mention that in front of Vince. #RAW30
— Andrew Goldstein (@AngeGold) January 24, 2023
The revelation adds fuel to the speculation that McMahon may be taking back control of the company’s creative direction and highlights his influence on the portrayal of characters within the company.
This isn’t the first time in recent years that there’s been rumours of an American Badass comeback. At WrestleMania 34 in 2018, with the induction of Kid Rock – who performs the famous entrance music – into the WWE Hall of Fame the night before the event, there was speculation it would be this version of The Undertaker who would turn up in New Orleans to face John Cena. However, it was reported at the time that Vince McMahon ultimately scrapped the idea due to controversial political statements made by Kid Rock during his Hall of Fame induction speech the night before WrestleMania.