Lex Luger Explains How He Was Able To Effectively Switch His Character When Needed

In a recent interview for Insight with Chris Van Vliet, wrestling legend Lex Luger shed light on his unique ability to seamlessly transition between babyface and heel roles throughout his career. Luger’s versatility, as he explains, was a key factor in his longevity and value to wrestling promotions, particularly in World Championship Wrestling (WCW).

Luger, known for his impressive physique and in-ring prowess, revealed that his adaptability was not just a personal trait but a strategic asset for the company.

I was very durable. People don’t realise is part of the reason I got switched back and forth so much was, Eric Bischoff said this as well, ‘I always knew Lex could handle being a top heel or like a top-5 babyface. I knew he could walk that line and stay authentic with the fans’.

WCW President Eric Bischoff, recognised Luger’s unique ability to maintain credibility with fans regardless of his alignment. This versatility allowed WCW to utilise Luger as a solution to various booking challenges, particularly when injuries struck other top stars. However, Luger acknowledged that this frequent switching between face and heel roles might have had its drawbacks.

Eric said it might not have been the best for my career long-term, switching back and forth. You could be an arrogant heel or a confident babyface because you can pull it off. That’s a rare thing because most guys are either a really good heel or a really good babyface.

The ability to fill gaps at the top of the card, regardless of alignment, kept Luger in prominent positions throughout his WCW tenure. Luger cited a specific instance of his role flexibility.

When Sting got hurt really bad with his knee, they switched me in my match with (Ric) Flair and I kind of took Sting’s spot as a top babyface.

Summarising his role, Lex Luger shared Bischoff’s apt description of him as “an utility all-star.” This meant that WCW could position Luger wherever he was needed, confident in his ability to perform at a high level.

They could put me wherever I needed to be and I could still perform for the company. That made me a very valuable asset because I never got hurt.

Lex Luger’s durability, combined with his ability to switch between face and heel ensured that Lex Luger remained a central figure in pro wrestling for many years, usually featured in a prominent role all the way from 1988 until WCW ended in 2001.

Lex Luger Says He Feels Responsible For Actions Leading To The Death Of Miss Elizabeth

During the same interview with Chris Van Vliet, Lex Luger said he understands why fans insist he’s responsible for Miss Elizabeth’s death in 2003, Luger further stated that her being around him and his lifestyle at the time was a contributing factor to her untimely death and he takes responsibility for that.

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