WWE Echoing WCW's Downfall: Missed Opportunities and Questionable Decisions

In a series of events eerily reminiscent of WCW's decline, WWE's recent programming decisions are reminiscent of WCWs ignorance of long term planning thus their 83 Weeks moment.

Drew McIntyre's boastful recounting of his actions against CM Punk on SmackDown highlights a trend of prioritizing backstage drama over compelling storylines. While conflict can be engaging, focusing on personal feuds rather than in-ring action risks alienating viewers seeking athletic competition.

Chad Gable's swift victory following a violent attack by the Wyatt Sick6, coupled with a sudden shift towards a pseudo-face character and potential alliance with the Creed Brothers and Ivy Nile, feels rushed and contrived. While Bo Dallas' interaction with Uncle Howdy offers a glimmer of intrigue, the overall booking of this segment lacks a cohesive narrative.

Sami Zayn's abrupt forfeiture of an Intercontinental Championship match at Money in the Bank is another perplexing decision. Championship opportunities should be treated with gravity, not as bargaining chips in hastily assembled plotlines.

Judgment Day's frivolous antics in their Clubhouse, complete with a new TV gifted by Liv Morgan, who now holds the power to book matches for the faction, further emphasizes a focus on nonsensical backstage segments over meaningful in-ring rivalries. Zelina Vega's inexplicable title shot after a loss adds to the sense of arbitrary decision-making.

While Damian Priest's potential departure from Judgment Day could be a positive development for his career, the group's overall direction remains unclear. The women's tag team division also suffers from a lack of compelling narratives, while Karrion Kross' victories over numerous former WWE Champions feel repetitive and lackluster.

The newly formed Bloodline, now featuring Jacob Fatu, raises eyebrows as it seems to prioritize shock value over logical character development.

The decision to gift championship titles to JD McDonagh and Finn Balor, while potentially setting up future storylines, also undermines the importance of earning such accolades through competition.

As WWE continues down this path, it risks repeating the mistakes that ultimately led to WCW's demise.

A focus on unimportant cringe worthy backstage drama, shallow and rushed character development, and questionable booking decisions can alienate viewers and erode the prestige of championship.

WWE needs course-correct for the good of professional wrestling.


During WCW's 83-week dominance over WWF, several major storylines captivated audiences:

1. **The Rise of the New World Order (nWo):** The formation of the nWo, led by Hulk Hogan, Scott Hall, and Kevin Nash, was a groundbreaking storyline that blurred the lines between reality and fiction. The nWo's rebellious attitude and "invasion" of WCW resonated with fans and propelled the company to new heights.

2. **Sting vs. nWo:** Sting's transformation into a silent, crow-like vigilante and his long-awaited showdown with the nWo at Starrcade 1997 was a major draw. The anticipation and mystery surrounding Sting's character captivated fans and solidified his status as a WCW icon.

3. **Goldberg's Undefeated Streak:** Goldberg's meteoric rise to stardom, fueled by his impressive undefeated streak and dominant in-ring performances, was a major attraction. His matches were often short but impactful, leaving fans in awe of his power and athleticism.

4. **The Rise of the Cruiserweight Division:** WCW's cruiserweight division showcased a high-flying, fast-paced style of wrestling that contrasted with the power-based approach of the WWF. Stars like Rey Mysterio, Eddie Guerrero, and Chris Jericho emerged from this division and became household names.

5. **Celebrity Involvement:** WCW's willingness to incorporate celebrities like Dennis Rodman, Karl Malone, and Jay Leno into storylines generated mainstream attention and helped expand the company's reach beyond traditional wrestling fans.

These storylines, along with others like the Four Horsemen's various incarnations and the emergence of Diamond Dallas Page, contributed to WCW's 83-week dominance over WWF. However, the company's inability to sustain these successes and adapt to changing trends ultimately led to its downfall.


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