WWE Hall of Famer Jeff Jarrett recently featured on the “Stories With Brisco & Bradshaw” podcast, where he reminisced on the circumstances surrounding his exit from WWE in 1999, as well as the rumor that he demanded a higher pay from the WWE during the No Mercy 1999 event, at which Chyna triumphed over him for the Intercontinental Championship.
A few key points from the podcast includes:
Discussing his second stint in WWE, Jarrett mentions how he re-signed with the company in October 1997 after leaving WCW. Despite some initial misfires and a rocky relationship with Stone Cold Steve Austin at the time, Jarrett asserts that he managed to build momentum in his role with the phrases ‘Don’t Piss Me Off’ and the use of his guitar, a fact Pat Patterson drove home with a cutting remark about his delayed success after he cut his hair.
Reflecting on his feud with Chyna, Jarrett talks about the Attitude Era and the rise of DX, along with his own storyline and how his position as the Intercontinental Champion grew organically and fit within the ongoing narrative.
Jarrett elaborates on the somewhat rocky contract negotiations with Jim Ross, indicative of a business model that didn’t match his own expectations. This led to his decision to explore other options, resulting in a considerable pay raise from WCW, despite his concerns and past experiences with the company.
Jarrett explains how his reluctance to renew his contract with WWE resulted in a series of calls from Vince McMahon, who Jarrett felt would have little influence on the deal due to Jim Ross overseeing the operations at the time.
He candidly admits his dissatisfaction during his time with WCW, pointing out the lack of clear authority and his preference for the hierarchy of the territory days.
Discussing the wrestling event No Mercy 1999, Jarrett recalls the tense atmosphere and his clear determination to have an agreement decided before the match, as well as ensuring his pay from previous pay-per-view events was resolved, leading to an increase in his requested payoff.
Commenting on his match with Chyna, Jarrett acknowledges the importance of the event for her. He also explains his request for the check to be written by Gund Arena and his belief that Vince McMahon wouldn’t have respected him had he not stood up for his terms.
The full podcast episode featuring Jarrett’s detailed account of this saga is available on YouTube.