On the “Something To Wrestle With” podcast, JBL, a former WWE commentator, shared his experiences interacting with Vince McMahon, who frequently provided instructions on-the-spot during broadcasts.
Here are some noteworthy segments from the conversation:
While discussing his stint as a WWE commentator and interacting with Vince McMahon, JBL commented: “Michael Cole and I would be on the headset with Vince and Kevin Dunn. Vince would often communicate with us in the middle of the show. Sometimes he’d chat about the show only with me, because he had his headphones on and no one else was available. So he used to chat with us. This gave us an insight into Vince that was unique. We heard backstage stories that were unheard of by others. Although there were other guys with better access and resources, we received information directly from Vince.”
JBL debunked a common misconception about Vince’s authoritative style: “It’s not true that Vince dictated everything 100%. Vince was the best producer I have ever collaborated with. He was able to offer concise phrases and I’d often follow his word, as I had immense trust in him. When Vince gave Michael Cole and I directives, it was amazing as he would openly discuss creative aspects, as he knew we could be trusted. In the production/creative meeting, Vince would refrain from disclosing all details due to possible leaks. Vince’s instructions sometimes might not make sense immediately, but they would eventually fit into the bigger picture.”
He also shared his thoughts on the possibility of Vince venturing into something new in the wrestling industry: “I can only speak based on how he has treated me, which has been like a father figure. When the company’s sale to TKO was about to be announced, I saw Vince backstage at WrestleMania. When I congratulated him on not fading away silently, he looked at me with a fiery intensity in his eyes, indicating his unwavering spirit. I don’t believe Vince is finished. I predict he’s going to take on something new and it might be in Hollywood. I don’t have any inside scoop on this, but knowing him and his competitive nature, he won’t fade away without a fight.”