As wrestling fans, we’re used to numerous sayings and chants that often become tied to a particular wrestling, and This Day in Wrestling History is the birth of one that’s endured the test of time.
On August 13, 2001, Steve Austin introduced what would become his new chant in a speech to the Alliance after he betrayed the WWE to join them.
The first person to be the recipient of the most famous chant in professional wrestling history was Hugh Morrus, followed by Raven and Taz.
“Look at ya. You’re 275-pounds. Your name is Hugh Morrus. What? Your name is Hugh Morrus. What? Is that funny? Is that humorous? Are you here to make me laugh? What? You’re pathetic! Look at me! You’re pathetic! Y2J whipped your ass. I’m ashamed of ya. Step back.”
Curious origins and legacy
The phrase came about like most things, meaning completely by accident. Austin has said it started while on the road and he called Christian and randomly said it in a voicemail.
It quickly took on a life of its own and quickly became the bane of existence for many as fans have passed it on and it continues to thrive today.
In 2013, Austin gave an interview with Sam Roberts and spoke on a few topics, including his thoughts on how the chant has lasted from one generation to another.
“The fact that my presence is still felt, or my influence is still felt, it’s an honor and a privilege.”
Austin mentioned how he hasn’t wrestled for twelve or so years, and Roberts said how people watching then (in 2013) hadn’t ever seen him wrestle and were repeating the chant.
It’s a cool legacy that only a few can lay claim to, and Austin appreciates it.
Of course, not everyone likes the chant after so many years and they’re not shy about letting their feelings be known.
Austin touched on that with his usual thoughtful and straightforward way while chatting with Roberts.
“Everybody always says ‘What?!’ ruins everybody else’s promos. It does not! If you leave that gap in between your sentences, your words, your phrasing… don’t interrupt your cadence and give them that end for the ‘What?!’ If you just keep talking, just like I’m doing, I don’t give you a chance to say it.”
It’s really that simple, and we’ve noticed wrestlers tend to pause at the right moment to get that fan interaction.
In many ways, it’s funny to think that a simple one word phrase could have such a lasting impact and become the sport’s most famous chant.
Pretty impressive, and This Day in Wrestling History is one for the ages. It’s not everyday one word can transform the sport.
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