The WWE always talks about how they send anyone who ever worked for them to rehab for free if they want to go. I’d like to see some stats on how many go to this “rehab” and how many eventually relapse and die. Is there a better rehab facility or treatment plan?… Aftercare… something. But the staggering total of recent deaths means the culture hasn’t changed. Saying “the boys will be boys” is the enabler’s mantra while the WWE crowing about their “Rehab then Relapse” policy is sad. TNA reportedly wants former WWE guys to seek their former employer to pay for treatment, even if they are under TNA deals or being considered for one.
The WWE’s legacy is forever affected by the drug abuse deaths. It has become a leading issue in Linda McMahon’s Senate campaign and those who used to work for the WWE are being impacted in the private sector, as negative feelings about the WWE hurt their ability to get jobs in a competitive market. The problem will continue to grow as stories of wrestlers hooked on drugs and “working for gimmicks” are plentiful.
Shawn Michaels saved his legacy when he gave his life to Christ a decade ago. Bret Hart was majorly sidetracked by the events in Montreal but his return to the WWE this year has allowed both sides to move on. I’ll be interested to see how Bret writes the next chapter of his legacy. Shawn’s retirement allowed him to go out on top, when, years ago, many thought he would have gone out on a cold slab, dead from drugs. Two examples of re-writing your own legacy… Yes, it can be done.
