Raw Rewind: Mene Gene Tribute

It is hard to believe that only a few days into the new year and we have lost one of the greatest, most talented, lovable personalities in all of wrestling. The one name that was brought to the WWF very early on in the national expansion when Vince McMahon first began to go national and "Mene" Gene would become part of the WWF's brand from his debut with the company in the 1980's all the way through to his departure in 1993. During his time in the WWF he become a man of many talents which included interviewing, hosting, announcing, and even wrestling. For those who may not be aware Gene actually teamed with Hulk Hogan in 1984 against George Steele and Mr. Fuji, this would be the only match Gene's career. 

After nine years with the WWF the time came when his contract expired for Gene to walk away from the promotion and move onto a new home WCW. Gene would join the WCW in the fall of 1993 and other than one short "vacation" away from the company in 1996 he would remain a member of the WCW until the company was sold in 2001. Gene would become a staple of the promotion much like he did in the WWF years before providing "information" with his hot-line and a common presence for interviews every especially his with Ric Flair they were always a highlight. 

Looking back it is funny to think how much of an impact Gene had on the product, because a good interviewer had the ability to keep your interest even during the non-wrestling segments. In my opinion if Jim Ross is the greatest wrestling announcers ever then "Mene" Gene is the greatest interviewer in the history of pro-wrestling. Nobody could help the wrestlers or ask the right questions to really keep your attention during segments that can be hit or miss. If you look at the interviewers of today they couldn't even lace a pair of Gene's boots and though the sport has changed a lot over the years one thing truly hasn't a good interview is nothing but helpful. 

Thank you Gene for all the moments you were a part of and memories you helped make all the more special. You will be incredibly missed by everyone who had the pleasure to see you do what you loved with those that you loved for all the years you were able to do it. Now you will have the chance to give the wrestling event in the sky the greatest interviewer in history and just another reason that show is just so damn lucky. "You know something "Mene" Gene!" We will miss you, god speed!!