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WWE Hall of Famer Sgt. Slaughter is known as one of the most patriotic wrestlers of all time. However, in the early 90s, he shocked fans by turning heel and becoming a sympathizer for Russia and, more controversially, Iraq. This led to a heated feud with Hulk Hogan, culminating in the main event of WrestleMania VII, where Hogan defeated Slaughter to win the WWE Championship.
On the latest episode of “Something to Wrestle,” WWE executive Bruce Prichard reflected on Slaughter’s time as a villain, noting the intense backlash he faced for his portrayal of an enemy sympathizer.
“There was heat, man,” Prichard said. “We were in uncharted waters. Sarge being seen as a sympathizer really upset people. They didn’t like that at all, and they made it known.”
Prichard also shared his own experiences during this time, recalling how he was given a medal as the “Greatest American” at SummerSlam 1990, just as Slaughter was ramping up his villainous persona. Prichard admitted he was shocked by the intense hostility, underestimating the impact of the Gulf War on fans.
“They wanted Sarge to wear a bulletproof vest,” Prichard said. “They wanted me to wear one too, but we refused. I thought our fans were smart enough to know this was just entertainment. But looking back, the Gulf War was serious business, unlike anything in my adult life. It was a whole different vibe for everyone.”
If you use any quotes in this article, please credit “Something To Wrestle” with a h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription
