Tony Schiavone Reveals Vince McMahon Made Him Change His Look Before WWE Debut

Veteran wrestling announcer Tony Schiavone has shared a revealing anecdote about the meticulous control Vince McMahon exercised over on-air talent presentation, disclosing how the former WWE chairman requested he shave his moustache before making his television debut in 1989.

During a recent episode of his “What Happened When” podcast, Schiavone recounted the unexpected conversation that took place in Binghamton, New York, just before he was set to begin his brief stint with the World Wrestling Federation.

Vince McMahon came to me and he said, ‘I need to ask you something and I hope you don’t mind doing this. Gene Okerlund has a moustache and we’d like him to be our only announcer with a moustache and will you shave it?’ And I said, ‘Absolutely, I’ll do it.’

The revelation offers wrestling fans a fascinating glimpse into McMahon’s notorious attention to detail and his desire to create visual distinction between on-air personalities. While seemingly trivial, such appearance mandates were common practice under McMahon’s leadership, with numerous performers over the years being asked to modify their hairstyles, attire, or physical appearance to fit the company’s presentation vision.

What makes Tony Schiavone’s anecdote particularly interesting is how it contrasts with his prior experience working for Jim Crockett Promotions before joining the WWF.

David Crockett will tell you that they wanted me to grow a moustache when I first started on TBS because they thought I looked too young.

AEW announcer Tony Schiavone’s tenure with the WWF would prove short-lived, as he returned to WCW in 1990 where he would later become the iconic voice of WCW Monday Nitro during the Monday Night Wars in the late 1990s.

What Was Tony Schiavone’s Favourite Match He Ever Did Commentary For?

During another recent episode of his podcast, Tony Schiavone opened up about the most memorable match he ever did commentary for during his lengthy career, naming the main event from the first time he called a show at Madison Square Garden – Hulk Hogan vs. the Big Boss Man in a steel cage match.

H/t to ITRWrestling.com