Russo, WWE’s head writer in the late 1990s, played an integral role in RAW’s television ratings success over WCW. Vince McMahon rehired the one-time WCW World Heavyweight Champion as a creative consultant in 2002. However, it soon became apparent that the deal was not going to work for both parties.
Gewirtz wrote about Russo’s return in his book, “There’s Just One Problem…: True Tales from the Former, One-Time, 7th Most Powerful Person in WWE.” He recalled how Vince McMahon broke the news to everyone about Russo’s sudden departure:
Gewirtz felt that Russo had not done enough research on WWE storylines before returning to the company.
Three months after Chris Jericho and Triple H headlined WrestleMania 18, Russo asked whether the two men had ever faced each other. He also wanted The Undertaker to suddenly vacate the Undisputed Championship because he was “not hip and cool.”
Vince McMahon asked Brian Gewirtz to work with Vince Russo
Before his brief WWE return ended, Vince Russo was told to report to Brian Gewirtz on a weekly basis as part of his new consultancy role.
Gewirtz enjoyed his conversations with Russo, but the former WCW and WWE writer soon left the company and joined IMPACT/TNA:
Watch the video above to hear Gewirtz’s thoughts on Russo’s style as a wrestling writer.
What do you think about Vince Russo’s legacy in the wrestling business? Let us know in the comments section.
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