JBL Discusses the Origins of the WWE Raw After WrestleMania Tradition
The Monday Night Raw following WrestleMania has become a staple in the wrestling world, known for its game-changing moments and rowdy crowd. On the podcast “Something To Wrestle,” JBL and Conrad Thompson delved into the history of this iconic tradition.
A Turning Point in 1998
Thompson pointed to WrestleMania 14 in 1998 as the catalyst for this phenomenon, citing the rise of Stone Cold Steve Austin, Triple H’s leadership of DX, and the debuts of X-Pac and the New Age Outlaws. JBL agreed, emphasizing the need to reset after losing a star like Shawn Michaels.
“The Beginning of a New Year”
JBL revealed that internally, the day after WrestleMania was considered the start of WWE’s “new year.” This marked a time for change within the company, with firings and hirings being common. Vince McMahon himself viewed it as a fresh start, ready to tackle the challenges of the upcoming year.
Vince McMahon’s Dedication
JBL shared a story highlighting McMahon’s dedication to his work, noting that while others celebrated at WrestleMania parties, McMahon saw it as the beginning of a new chapter. This mindset of hard work and dedication set the tone for the company’s future.
A Tradition Solidified
Overall, JBL believes that 1998 was the year that cemented the Raw After WrestleMania as a must-watch event. With the combination of internal changes and fan perception, this tradition has become a cornerstone in the wrestling world.
In conclusion, the Raw After WrestleMania has evolved into a pivotal moment in WWE history, setting the stage for new storylines and surprises. With JBL’s insights, fans can now appreciate the significance of this post-WrestleMania tradition.