In an eye-opening episode of his podcast "What Happened When," AEW broadcaster Tony Schiavone shared astounding insights about the infamous wrestling character, The Renegade. Known for his striking resemblance to the Ultimate Warrior, The Renegade's storyline was marred by backstage tensions, particularly aimed at wrestling icon Hulk Hogan.

The Truth About The Renegade's Arrival

Schiavone revealed that The Renegade was initially signed by WCW with the intent of creating a foil for Hogan, essentially to serve as a sacrificial lamb in the ring. He elaborated, "Everybody realized he was brought in to be a Warrior, maybe feed him to Hogan… There was definitely some heat directed at Hogan for this." This indicates a deeper seated frustration amongst the roster about Hogan's dominating presence.

A Supportive Locker Room But Lingering Issues

Despite the animosity toward Hogan's booking, Schiavone emphasized that the locker room treated The Renegade with kindness. However, seasoned wrestlers who were tasked with putting him over resented the situation, creating a palpable tension. He remembered a memorable match where The Renegade faced Paul Orndorff at the iconic Bash at the Beach.

The Impact of Criticism on Mental Health

Schiavone also discussed the immense pressure that wrestlers face, particularly in today’s age of social media, noting how harsh online criticism could affect someone like The Renegade. He stated, "It can crush mental health, and it’s even worse now with social media. We need to remember that everyone deserves a break and kindness." This was a reflective call for empathy in an industry rife with scrutiny.

Fostering Positivity in Wrestling

On a lighter note, Schiavone expressed his belief in maintaining a positive environment backstage. He shared his joy in joking around with colleagues, saying, "The most fun you have in life is giving people s**t... I like everybody backstage, even those who are difficult. I always try to find something good about them." His philosophy is aimed at creating a more supportive atmosphere, implying that even tales of characters like The Renegade serve as crucial reminders of kindness.

In Schiavone's candid reflections, it's clear that the wrestling world is more complex than it appears, filled with both camaraderie and conflict. Stay tuned for more intriguing revelations from behind the curtain in wrestling!