HeelByNature.com is reader-supported. When you click on links or make purchases through our site, we or our affiliated partners may earn a commission. Additionally, our site features Sponsored Content, which helps us maintain and operate the website.
Back in the pro wrestling boom of the 1980s and 90s, one of the most exciting aspects of being a fan was seeing which gimmicks would come out next. Not only did the early world of pro wrestling work hard to protect its ‘backstage secrets’ from the public, but the explosion of new interest meant there was a high demand for new wrestlers.
In the early days, Gorgeous George’s ‘Pomp and Circumstance’ encouraged over-the-top characters to step into the ring. From there, heels got even scarier, while protagonist characters from The Undertaker to Ric Flair got weirder and weirder.
Over time, stereotypical characters became ingrained in the sport. Today’s top wrestlers from around the world tend to fit into a handful of gimmick types: ethnic, supernatural, juggernaut, sporty, academic, comedy, Hollywood, and thugs. A few other characters float in and out, but the offerings are overwhelmingly set according to what developed since the 80s.
This isn’t unique to pro wrestling; every industry has its own stereotypes that are based on real events and characters. For example, poker tournaments and online poker have become extremely popular since the 1970s. Since then, a set of common characters have developed, which are recognized by many in pop culture.
These include the ‘silent assassin’ and the ‘action junkie’, which have appeared in films and books as a type of trope. Still, whether watching a live tournament or Smackdown, fans enjoy seeing something new—especially considering change helps industries evolve. Unfortunately, some wrestlers take daring chances just to fall flat with fans and lose the chance to try again.
Looking back, here are a few of the freshest gimmicks that fans had never seen before.
The Godfather
Before fans got The Godfather, they knew Charles Wright by his real name, and then by Papa Shango, and finally as ‘The Supreme Fighting Machine’ Kama. The latter two attempted to build off popular origin characters from the 90s but flopped in the ring.
Then came Wright’s third character: The Godfather. Though Kama had showcased a few MMA moves in the ring that endeared Wright to fans, it was his portrayal of a godfather that took the WWF Brawl for All with zeal, showcasing his… fangirls.
Aside from his moves in the ring, The Godfather was known for his quick-dealing business moves and attempts to bribe his opponents in forfeiting. Almost better than The Godfather was the shortly-lived Goodfather, which fans also hadn’t quite seen before.
Goldust
At the same time Kama was turning his career around as The Godfather, one babyfaced wrestler who looking to create his own legacy with a fresh, new idea. In 1995, a baffling new wrestler debuted with WWE; they wore a gold bodysuit and face paint.
Enter Goldust, one of the most exciting and baffling gimmicks to ever hit the stage. Did Goldust make everyone a little uncomfortable? Yes. Were fans absolutely titillated to see just how far Goldust would go in his weirdness? Every single time he got into the ring.
Many remember Goldust for his fight against Roddy Piper at WrestleMania 12, but one of his first feats was to beat The Godfather at the WWF Intercontinental Championship. Over time, his character has evolved while managing to keep the same strange quality.
(Corporate) Kane
Many fans consider The Undertaker to be the original star in this set. While it’s undeniable that The Undertaker’s gimmick is one of the most long-lasting in pro wrestling, Kane’s character was even more of a surprise—especially in contrast to his brother, The Undertaker.
The Undertaker is an undead wrestler prone to stalking opponents and using mind tricks… but Kane’s most recent revival as Director of Operations under the McMahons is the fresh twist that fans crave.
His original red-masked version of Kane was a fiery success undoubtedly, but the more recent take on corporate heel life is still getting fans out of their seats to cheer any time he makes an appearance.