In this exclusive shoot interview, Vince Russo, the former head writer of WWE, pulls back the curtain on the pivotal year of 1998—a year that would forever change the landscape of professional wrestling. As one of the primary architects behind the Attitude Era, Russo takes fans on an in-depth journey through the creative decisions, power struggles, and behind-the-scenes chaos that fueled the most controversial and successful period in WWE history.
Russo candidly discusses the genesis of the Attitude Era, explaining how he and Vince McMahon pushed the boundaries of traditional wrestling storytelling, leading to a product that resonated with a generation of fans. He reveals the strategic decisions behind the iconic storylines and characters that defined 1998, from the rise of "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and The Rock to the impact of D-Generation X and the controversial Mike Tyson involvement.
This interview offers an unfiltered look at the internal conflicts between the old guard, represented by figures like Jim Cornette, and the new wave of edgy, reality-based content that Russo championed. He also delves into the challenges of working with top talents, the pressures of live television, and the constant battle to keep WWE ahead in the Monday Night Wars.
For the first time, Russo shares the untold stories of how the Attitude Era was crafted, including the infamous NWA invasion angle, the birth of the "Three Faces of Foley," and the real story behind Shawn Michaels' controversial exit from WWE. This interview is not just a recounting of history but a deep dive into the creative process that led to the revolution of sports entertainment.