Former WWE performer Maven recently shared details about his experience at WrestleMania 18, focusing on Vince McMahon’s intense reaction to a botched moment during the event. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Maven described the incident involving a missed hit with a trash can, a key part of a planned spot.
Details Behind the Trash Can Incident
Maven explained the specifics of the prop used in the match, saying,
“The trash cans we were using here were indeed real trash cans, but they were that lighter aluminum. The idea was going to be Goldust holding the trash can, and a stiff kick was gonna crumple it.”
This was meant to create a powerful and convincing impact during their performance.
Vince McMahon’s Strong Reaction to the Botch
The missed hit led to immediate and harsh feedback from Vince McMahon. Maven recalled,
“It was going to look and sound vicious. Gotta hit the damn trash can, though. Vince was none too pleased. He literally stopped me in my tracks and just berated me. If there’s any time that you don’t want to get on Vince’s bad side, it’s WrestleMania. I would be willing to bet that missing the trash can stayed in Vince’s mind. Just, and it’s not because of something athletic, or ‘Maven can’t throw a dropkick,’ nothing like that.”
The Lingering Impact on Maven’s Mindset
Reflecting on how the mistake affected him long after the event, Maven shared his worries about performing on such a big stage. He said,
“It’s a question of, ‘Can Maven perform when the lights are the brightest, when there are millions of you at home watching him, or is he going to miss another trash can? Is he going to miss his spot, miss his opportunity, miss the brass ring that we’re putting in front of him?’ 23 years later, I can giggle and laugh at it now, but I’ve lost sleep about missing that trash can many times.”
Significance of the WrestleMania 18 Moment for Maven
This glimpse into Maven’s perspective reveals the pressure wrestlers face during major events like WrestleMania, where a single error can leave a lasting impression on management and performers alike. Vince McMahon’s reaction underscores the high expectations in the WWE, while Maven’s reflections show the personal toll of such moments. Fans and observers will likely find new appreciation for the challenges wrestlers endure beneath the spotlight as Maven recalls this pivotal experience.
