Why Did Cornette Leave WWE?By Coder| September 27, 2023 Wrestling Blogs For wrestling fans around the world, the departure of Jim Cornette from WWE in 2005 was a shock. Cornette had been a prominent figure in the wrestling industry for decades, known for his outspoken personality and expertise as a manager and commentator. So, what led to his departure from WWE? Let’s delve into the reasons behind Cornette’s exit. The Controversial Incident One of the main factors that led to Cornette’s departure was a controversial incident that occurred during a live event in 2005. During an episode of Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), WWE’s developmental territory at the time, Cornette made an off-color comment that was considered inappropriate and offensive by many viewers. The Fallout The comment made by Cornette sparked immediate backlash from fans and critics alike. The incident garnered significant media attention and put WWE in an uncomfortable position. As a result, WWE decided to part ways with Cornette, citing their commitment to maintaining a family-friendly image. WWE’s Evolving Image Another reason for Cornette’s departure was WWE’s shift towards a more corporate image. At the time, WWE was transitioning from its edgier Attitude Era to a more PG-rated product. This transition meant that certain individuals, including Cornette, no longer fit into WWE’s new direction. The Rise of Sports Entertainment WWE had been moving away from traditional professional wrestling towards sports entertainment for years. This shift placed greater emphasis on scripted storylines and character development rather than pure athletic competition. As someone deeply rooted in traditional wrestling values, Cornette found it increasingly difficult to adapt to this changing landscape. Creative Differences Cornette has always been known for his strong opinions and willingness to voice them. This often led to creative clashes with WWE’s management team, who had their own vision for the product. Cornette’s old-school mentality clashed with WWE’s desire for a more mainstream appeal, leading to creative differences that ultimately contributed to his departure. Legacy and Impact Despite leaving WWE under controversial circumstances, Jim Cornette’s impact on the wrestling industry cannot be understated. His contributions as a manager, commentator, and booker have left an indelible mark on the sport. Cornette went on to work for various promotions after leaving WWE, continuing to share his knowledge and passion for wrestling. In Conclusion Jim Cornette’s departure from WWE in 2005 was a result of several factors: a controversial incident, WWE’s evolving image, creative differences, and his resistance to the shift towards sports entertainment. While his departure may have been abrupt and controversial, there is no denying the significant impact he has had on professional wrestling.
