WWE Hall Of Famer Reveals How Paul Wight Became “The Big Show”

Legendary wrestling commentator and WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has shared how Paul Wight came to be known as “The Big Show.”

Speaking on his podcast Grilling JR, Ross discussed Wight’s transition from WCW to WWE in 1999. Initially competing under his real name, it wasn’t long before the company decided on a moniker that would define his career for more than two decades.

“Shane McMahon gave him the name ‘The Big Show,’ and it seemed to fit,”

Ross recalled. However, Ross also revealed that WWE had considered a vastly different identity for Wight. At one point, there were plans to name him “Titan, the Corporate Giant,” though the idea was swiftly abandoned.

Despite the change, Wight’s WWE debut still carried a corporate theme, as he was introduced as a member of Vince McMahon’s infamous Corporation faction. He remained aligned with the group for several months before turning babyface and breaking away after his clash with Mankind at WrestleMania XV.

Wight continued to wrestle under the name The Big Show for the remainder of his WWE tenure, firmly establishing himself as one of the most recognisable giants in wrestling history. He parted ways with WWE in 2021, bringing an end to a legendary chapter under the iconic name.

Which Former Member Of The WWE Commentary Team Did Jim Ross Say He Struggled To Work With?

Jim Ross spoke about how he struggled to work with former announcer Todd Pettengill. Ross said that his personal relationship with Pettengill was great and they got along well backstage, but on screen, whilst announcing the two didn’t click, Ross believes this is due to Pettengill’s lighter, more comedic approach to wrestling commentary didn’t gel with Ross’ more serious approach.

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