Jim Ross Discusses Criticism of Triple H’s Rise as Top Heel Star in Attitude Era

On a recent episode of his podcast, Grilling JR, Jim Ross discussed the rise of Triple H in WWE as a top heel in 1999, criticism of his position in the company, and more. Here are the highlights:

On Triple H’s emergence as a top heel star in 1999: “Triple H became — if not the top heel in the company. I don’t know who else it would have been. He earned his spot, contrary to all the gossip and the bulls**t about his dating relationship and then subsequently his marriage, the guy earned it. And he was really good at his craft, as we’re seeing now, he’s really good at his craft. It’s a different craft, but he’s still win or lose, and he’s winning a lot more than he’s losing with his current job.”

Jim Ross on why Triple H got the spot: “Triple H just earned the spot. He was the — I don’t know who else you would pick out of our roster that was more ready for the spot that Triple H earned than him, than Triple H. So he earned his spot, and he was really, really good at it. And you know, I went on a vendetta about him, and tried to make him a bigger heel than he was. There are still people this very day who think that I hate Triple H, and he hates me and all that stuff. It’s pro wrestling. Our job is to get talent over, and to establish their persona. And I thought we did a nice job of establishing Triple H’s persona that followed his lead on how all that stuff worked out. So, [he’s the[ perfect choice. Nobody else really in strong consideration, at least in my view. So well earned, well deserved.”

On criticism of Triple H as a top star: “Oh, it’s all because of his marital status and his dating situation. It wasn’t based on his work. In my opinion, as I said earlier, Triple H was the only guy that I believe to this very day, all these years later, 25 plus years later, that was ready for this move. And I thought when he got the ball, he carried it very well. He delivered.”

If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit the Grilling JR podcast with an h/t to 411mania.com for the transcription.