The Origin and Popularity of the WWE Chant: 'What! '
Wrestling fans around the world know a peculiar chant that has been a staple of WWE matches for over two decades. The chant, 'What! ', originated from the antics of a legendary figure in WWE, Stone Cold Steve Austin. This article explores the history, impact, and continued relevance of this iconic chant in WWE matches.
Introduction to the 'What! ' Chant
Stone Cold Steve Austin, one of the most iconic figures in WWE history, is credited with the origin of the 'What! ' chant. In 2001 and 2002, Austin would frequently interrupt his opponents or colleagues during wrestling angles by repeatedly saying 'What! '. Instead of giving them a chance to finish their sentences or respond to him, Austin's refrain was a simple question that would often leave the other person unresponsive. This behavior was both annoying and comical, gaining him notoriety and a lasting impact on WWE culture.
The 'What! ' Chant in WWE Promos
One of the earliest documented instances of the 'What! ' chant was during Austin's famous heel turn. A heel turn is a character's alignment switch from babyface (the hero) to heel (the villain). During this transition, Austin adopted a mocking and provocative persona, frequently cutting others off by saying 'What! '.
According to eyewitness accounts and memories from wrestling fans, the 'What! ' chant quickly caught on. WWE fans who disliked particular wrestlers would mimic Austin's behavior, chanting 'What! ' when confronted with characters they despised. Over time, the chant evolved from a personal quirk to a collective expression of fan displeasure.
The Evolution of the Chant
The 'What! ' chant has transcended its origins and become an integral element of WWE culture. The phrase 'What! ' has been adopted as a crowd response to wrestlers who are disliked by the audience. The chant is not only a simple yet effective means of showing disapproval but also a fun and annoying experience for the heel wrestlers.
One of the key figures behind the chant's popularity is Steve Austin himself. From funny answering machine messages to on-stage promos, his consistent use of 'What! ' has kept the chant alive. Even after decades, the audience continues to chant 'What! ', not just to express disapproval but also to engage in a shared experience of humor and sports entertainment.
Impact on WWE Wrestlers
The endless chanting of 'What! ' has not been without its impact on other wrestlers. Many performers have stated that they find the chant annoying and distracting during matches and promos. Stone Cold Steve Austin himself has admitted to the frustration the chant brings. In one of his podcasts, he revealed that he can no longer stand the constant chanting, suggesting that the legacy of his antics has a lasting impact on the show's atmosphere.
However, despite the annoyance, the chant has become an essential part of WWE culture. It has evolved from a personal habit to a community ritual, cementing its place in the annals of professional wrestling history.
Conclusion
The 'What! ' chant, born from the disruptive and provocative behavior of Stone Cold Steve Austin, has become one of the most recognizable phrases in WWE. It serves as a testament to the influential legacy of Austin and the enduring appeal of WWE's unique brand of professional wrestling. As the company continues to evolve, the 'What! ' chant remains an iconic symbol of fan engagement and the dynamic interplay between wrestlers and their audience.