On a recent episode of his Road Trip After Hours podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Teddy Long reflected candidly on several wrestling figures, including a revealing Drew McIntyre WWE backstage story that fans had not heard before. During the discussion, Long offered unique glimpses into his experiences with these personalities, spanning moments from WWF and WCW eras.
Memories of Al Snow’s Unusual Nickname
Long began by reminiscing about Al Snow, who gained fame for his quirky Head gimmick and key role in backstage training. Long shared an amusing anecdote about how Snow gave him the nickname “Bubbles.” He recalled the friendship fondly, laughing as he described meeting Snow at a signing and greeting him with the nickname Snow had first used.
Reflecting on Chris Benoit’s Generosity
Ted Long’s tone became more serious when discussing Chris Benoit. He remembered Benoit as a quiet but extremely giving person, highlighting a long, slow drive they shared with Nancy Sullivan, which took nearly 12 hours to cover 150 miles between Green Bay and Milwaukee. Long emphasized Benoit’s kindness while consciously choosing not to comment on the tragic circumstances that later defined Benoit’s legacy.
“Oh God man, what a great guy. God rest his soul,”
—Teddy Long
“We were in Milwaukee… me, Benoit, and Nancy Sullivan. I was driving back from Green Bay, and it took us almost 12 hours for a 150-mile trip. Chris was just… he’d give you the shirt off his back.”
—Teddy Long
“That never appeared to be nothing like that. I just… I don’t want to speak on it because I don’t have a clue.”
—Teddy Long
Behind the Scenes with Drew McIntyre’s “Chosen One” Storyline
Long also recounted his involvement with Drew McIntyre during McIntyre’s “Chosen One” storyline. In this arc, Long was scripted to show deference to McIntyre, even bowing down on set. Long described being deeply committed to the performance, giving his full effort to Vince McMahon’s direction despite how challenging it was to portray the obedience demanded of him.
“Great guy, man. Vince McMahon put me and him in a storyline… he made me bow down on my knees and talk about my grandkids,”
—Teddy Long
“That broke me. I gave 100% to anything Vince put me in.”
—Teddy Long
The Warmth of Legends: The Fabulous Moolah and Mae Young
Long’s mood brightened when recalling two female icons, The Fabulous Moolah and Mae Young. He described them as genuinely entertaining and welcoming backstage, always ready to engage with others during television tapings. Their presence was a highlight of Long’s backstage experience, reinforcing the camaraderie behind the scenes.
“Every time they’d come to TV, I’d run straight to them,”
—Teddy Long
“They was always entertaining. Made you feel welcome, man.”
—Teddy Long
Jim Cornette’s Bold Support
Long praised Jim Cornette for his straightforward nature and loyalty. He highlighted how Cornette once publicly stood up for him amidst a difficult situation, a gesture Long has never forgotten. Cornette’s fearless honesty remains a defining trait in Long’s recollections.
“He’s going to tell you exactly how it is… He spoke up for me one time when something was wrong, and I’ll never forget that. So thank you, Jimmy.”
—Teddy Long
Reminiscence of “Mean” Gene Okerlund and Bobby Heenan’s Advice
During his time in WCW, Long encountered announcers “Mean” Gene Okerlund and Bobby “The Brain” Heenan, who offered him memorable, candid feedback. Heenan warned Long that Vince McMahon would strongly disapprove of what he was doing in WCW. Although Long did not initially grasp the full weight of the warning, the comment has stuck with him over time.
“They stopped me and started talking… Bobby said, ‘If Vince McMahon knew what you were doing down here, he’d blow you up,’”
—Teddy Long
“I didn’t think much of it at the time… but I never forgot those words.”
—Teddy Long
What This Reveals About WWE’s Backstage Culture
Teddy Long’s stories offer a rare, behind-the-curtain perspective on the personalities who shaped wrestling history. His Drew McIntyre WWE backstage story, in particular, reveals the personal and professional dynamics that fans rarely see, illustrating the complexity of working under Vince McMahon’s direction. These anecdotes highlight the respect, challenges, and unexpected moments experienced by wrestlers and staff alike, emphasizing how backstage relationships influence the product seen on-screen.
With more wrestling legends ready to share their untold experiences, audiences can look forward to further revelations that deepen understanding of the world behind wrestling’s spectacle.
