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Monday, May 8, 2017

I never knew... Bobby Heenan, Jr. nearly happened

Brother Love, Bobby Heenan & The Brooklyn Brawler
Courtesy: WWE

By Kevin Hunsperger
@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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A couple weeks ago I started a new feature, writing about things in the wrestling industry I didn't know about. As a fan for more than 30 years, I thought I knew just about everything. But there are some things that have happened that I missed or were never brought to the public. This entry is an example of that. The info for this blog comes from the Something to Wrestle with Bruce Prichard podcast.


Almost a Heenan jacket
Courtesy: dWn
On the Mr. Perfect episode, Prichard told listeners the story about how he nearly became known as Bobby Heenan, Junior. We all know Prichard donned a white suit, red makeup and larger than life glasses to play Brother Love. The character hosted his own talk show and even did some managing, including bringing in the Undertaker. But at some point, there was serious consideration to a complete gimmick change. 


Heenan vs. Hulk Hogan
Courtesy: WWE
The idea was for Prichard to bleach his hair blond and dress in the sparkly jackets, just like "The Brain."  Heenan was hurting after years of taking bumps from guys like Hulk Hogan, The Ultimate Warrior and "Rowdy" Roddy Piper. It was time to rest and stay behind the mic. But somewhere along the way, Vince McMahon nixed the idea and the character change never happened.


Brother Love vs. Dusty Rhodes
Courtesy: WWE
I love Bobby Heenan. I love Brother Love (and Bruce Prichard). I'm glad the idea never took root. I understand wanting to capitalize on the popularity of Heenan. I don't know if fans would have bought into the idea. We know Prichard could take the bumps like Heenan did as he got tossed around and beat up by the top babyface Superstars in the company.


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