Hell in a Cell 2019 Sparks Unprecedented Backlash
The main event at Hell in a Cell 2019 in Sacramento, California was eagerly awaited as it showcased Seth Rollins facing off against The Fiend. During the match, Rollins used a threatening red light to deliver several curb stomps on The Fiend, who is Bray Wyatt’s evil persona. As the situation became more serious, Rollins turned to using a toolbox, then a chair, and finally a sledgehammer. The ending of the game caused fans to react strongly as the referee ended the match without announcing a winner due to Rollins using the sledgehammer.
Fans’ Outrage and Unruly Behavior
The sudden and unsatisfactory conclusion sparked anger among the spectators. The crowd’s deep disappointment was expressed through chants of “refund,” “AEW,” and even “bullsh*t” reverberating throughout the arena. The response served as a clear indication of how fervent and outspoken WWE’s audience is, as they believed they were deprived of a conclusive and gratifying end to the important match.
Behind the Scenes: Matt Camp’s Perspective
Matt Camp, previously known WWE figure, recounted his personal experience of the year when he hosted the Hell in a Cell watchalong on YouTube. Camp shared the hectic aftermath of the match and a memorable meeting with Vince McMahon in a video on his personal YouTube channel.
Camp described following Raw commentator Vic Joseph to the catering area, which was adjacent to the Gorilla Position. He vividly recalled how Vince McMahon, in a surprisingly upbeat mood, attempted to high-five Joseph, who inadvertently snubbed the WWE Chairman.
Vince McMahon Forced WWE Commentators To Stay At Desk Amidst Hostile Fan Reaction https://t.co/N4a6B7lLJB
— Inside The Ropes (@Inside_TheRopes) May 29, 2024
“I went to catering, and catering was right next to Gorilla. I come in and I’m following behind Vic Joseph, who was on commentary. It was his short run calling Raw. I’m following behind him, and he’s walking up the ramp towards Gorilla. Vince is coming the other way. Vince is skipping, he’s giddy. He goes to high-five Vic, and Vic blows him off. Now it’s me and Vince. I’m there a month. I’m going, ‘Uhhh.’ He doesn’t know I’m there and he keeps going,” Camp recounted.
Vince McMahon’s Unyielding Stance
Despite the intense backlash from the audience, Vince McMahon reportedly reveled in the crowd’s hostile reaction. According to Camp, McMahon was adamant about the commentary team remaining at their desk amidst the chaos, even as objects were being hurled from the stands.
“I found out that Vince made the commentators stay out there and Sacramento and that crowd was so pissed. They’re throwing stuff. I think Vic was upset about that. ‘Why are you leaving me out there to get pelted with crap?’ Vince loved the crowd reaction,” Camp explained.
The Commentary Team’s Dilemma
The directive to stay put placed the commentators in a precarious situation. Faced with an irate crowd, the commentators had no choice but to endure the barrage of debris and vocal displeasure. Vic Joseph, in particular, was reportedly frustrated with the decision, feeling abandoned in a volatile environment.
McMahon’s Perspective on Controversy
Vince McMahon’s response to the outcry demonstrates his intricate connection with WWE’s fan base. Recognized for his unexpected and sometimes controversial choices, McMahon has consistently welcomed divisive events, as he believes they can generate more excitement and participation in WWE shows. His pleasure in the audience’s reaction during Hell in a Cell 2019 is in line with this belief, considering the disapproval as a type of intense involvement, despite being based on dissatisfaction.
Impact on WWE and Its Audience
The aftermath of Hell in a Cell 2019 provides an example of the relationship between WWE and its fanbase. Although the initial response was mainly unfavorable, the situation highlighted the deep emotional connection WWE fans have. The commentary team was reminded of the unpredictability of live wrestling events and the sometimes challenging relationship between WWE’s creative choices and fan expectations.
Moving Forward
While WWE progresses, the Hell in a Cell 2019 event is still a crucial part of the company’s recent history. It demonstrates the difficulties and intricacies of overseeing live entertainment, where audience responses can be just as unforeseeable as the actions taking place in the ring. For Vince McMahon and WWE, it highlights the need to find a balance between trying new ideas and keeping fans happy in order to keep their audience loyal and passionate.
The happenings of that evening in Sacramento highlight the intense nature of professional wrestling, where each match can be a pivotal moment in the sport’s rich history. The learnings from Hell in a Cell 2019 will definitely shape WWE’s future storylines and matches, impacting how the company engages with its loyal and vocal fans.
