WCW luchadores "weren't really respected," Konnan says (Exclusive)
Konnan appeared in WCW from 1996 to 2001 after making his name in Mexico. The legendary wrestler recently explained how the perception of the Mexican style has changed over the years.
In the mid-to-late 1990s, WCW showcased several luchadores on its weekly television shows. Stars such as Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio were among those who incorporated Lucha Libre into their matches. The company also introduced a Cruiserweight Championship.
Despite the increased television exposure, Konnan told Sportskeeda Wrestling Senior Editor Bill Apter that WCW commentators never prioritized the luchadores:
"They made a big impact, and we weren't really respected because the luchadores would be wrestling, and they [commentators] would be talking about another match. But now you see it's a big thing, it's a big deal." [From 7:39 – 7:56]
Watch the video above to hear the former WCW star's opinion on Chad Gable's portrayal of the masked El Grande Americano character.
Konnan on wrestling fans' respect for luchadores
On April 19, WWE announced the purchase of Mexican promotion AAA. Konnan has a long history with the organization and currently works on the creative team.
The one-time WCW United States Champion believes the 1994 Worlds Collide event, then known as When Worlds Collide, put luchadores on the map.
"On a big scale, the first time they saw us was When Worlds Collide," Konnan said. "Then, after When Worlds Collide, which was funny because on that show I had booked [Chris] Benoit, 2 Cold Scorpio, Tito Santana, and then Paul E. [Paul Heyman] brought us into ECW, and then WCW brought in a whole bunch of Mexicans. Every time I talk to somebody, they always say, 'I loved the Monday Night Wars, I loved The Rock,' but they always include us, and some people say, 'I would only watch the shows just to watch the luchadores.'" [From 06:43 – 07:39]
Later in the interview, the 61-year-old addressed how Triple H wants AAA to be viewed moving forward under WWE's guidance.
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