As any wrestling fan knows, WWE is steeped in behind-the-scenes drama – especially when the wrestling giants are unveiling their creative strategies and games; and even more so when Triple H who has recently unveiled a rather unusual story about one of his pitches that he made to WWE Chairman, Vince McMahon. This anecdote provides another example of the main idea of the program, and the creatively unorthodox nature of a typical debate of WWE programming and development.
Based on this revelation, Triple H come up with absurd notion of a match between Yang and Hornswoggle whereby Yang would arrive at the ring astride a live buffalo. On the face of it, the idea smacks of ridiculousness that nevertheless raises questions about the creative impulse and the innovative spirit which have characterized WWE’s narratives from their earliest days.
While the proposed match may not have come to fruition, Yang’s anecdote serves as a reminder of the creativity and imagination that drive the WWE creative team. Behind the scenes, ideas are constantly being brainstormed, refined, and ultimately brought to life in the ring, resulting in the larger-than-life spectacle that WWE fans know and love.
Ultimately, while not every pitch may make it to air, the willingness to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of traditional wrestling storytelling is what sets WWE apart and ensures that fans are always in for a thrilling ride.
During an interview with Steve Fall, Yang recounted the origins of the infamous “Flying Elvis” gimmick, revealing that the concept was actually conceived by Triple H. According to Yang, Triple H, along with Vince Russo and Shawn Michaels, concocted the idea of having performers portray “Flying Elvises” of different races.
The trio then presented this outlandish proposal to Vince McMahon, who responded in a manner that was quintessentially McMahon-esque. Yang recalled McMahon’s memorable reaction, as the WWE Chairman reportedly quipped, “What kind of drugs are you guys on?”
The sheer absurdity of the pitch left McMahon incredulous, prompting a moment of disbelief among those present. Yang’s retelling of the exchange provides a humorous insight into the inner workings of WWE’s creative meetings and the occasionally outlandish ideas that are proposed.
While the “Flying Elvis” gimmick may not have come to fruition, the anecdote serves as a testament to the creative brainstorming sessions that have long been a hallmark of WWE’s storytelling process.
Despite his departure from WWE in 2021, Yang’s recollection of this bizarre pitch serves as a reminder of the colorful characters and unconventional ideas that have defined the wrestling industry for decades. And while not every idea may have made it to television, stories like these continue to entertain and amuse wrestling fans around the world.
Stephen’s Value: Jimmy Wang Yang’s recounting of Triple H’s outlandish “Flying Elvis” gimmick pitch offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind WWE’s storytelling. The exchange between Triple H, Vince Russo, Shawn Michaels, and Vince McMahon underscores the unpredictable nature of WWE’s brainstorming sessions and the often eccentric ideas that are proposed. Despite the pitch ultimately not coming to fruition, the anecdote serves as a humorous reminder of the creativity and imagination that have long been hallmarks of the wrestling industry. As fans reflect on this entertaining behind-the-scenes moment, they are reminded of the colorful characters and unconventional ideas that continue to shape the world of professional wrestling.