Russo was WWE’s head writer in the late 1990s when RAW regularly drew its highest television ratings. He returned to the company in June 2002 as a creative advisor. However, he soon left the role and took up a full-time position with IMPACT/TNA.
Gewirtz wrote about Russo’s short-lived return in his book, “There’s Just One Problem…: True Tales from the Former, One-Time, 7th Most Powerful Person in WWE.” He clarified that Russo did not want The Phenom to leave the company, but he did raise doubts about the legend’s world title status:
According to Gewirtz, Russo did not have a “defined on-screen reason as to why we’d be stripping ‘Taker of the title.” He allegedly wanted a new WWE Undisputed Champion to be crowned simply because The Deadman was “not hip and cool.”
Vince Russo wanted RVD as WWE Undisputed Champion instead of The Undertaker
Rob Van Dam (RVD) was one of WWE’s most exciting new stars in 2002. Vince Russo enjoyed the high-flyer’s performances and told the creative team that his son often spoke about RVD with his friends.
Brian Gewirtz was also a fan of the ECW icon, but he questioned the logic behind suddenly vacating the WWE Undisputed Championship:
The creative team went along with Russo’s suggestion and created a potential tournament bracket, but the idea never made it to television.
Watch the video above to hear Brian Gewirtz’s story about a WCW segment that Vince McMahon found hilarious.
What is your favorite WWE moment involving The Undertaker? Let us know in the comments section.
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