Biggest travesty is hhh not putting booker t over at wrestlemania 19. I know they wanted a hhh vs goldberg fued. Booker t could of at least held the strap until bad blood (june 2003).
Not to mention HHH vs Goldberg didnt even need the belt to begin with for two good and bad reasons: They were both big name draws and their series of matches was forgettable af! Literally the most I remember from that feud was Triple H puttin a bounty out on Goldberg's head which almost got him ran over, crushed to death by cinder blocks and attacked on sight by all the heels in the locker room backstage.
Kurt was a drug abuser. He was heavy on the supplements to maintain his shape. Booker T on the other hand was at his peak physique and always seemed to stay healthy. I believe it was the fame and fast life that wore him down and led him to leaving. Vince couldn't careless about his talents well being. Many top wrestlers have lost their lives over the years all in attempt to remain relevant in the business and impress vince who was often notoriously recounted to be a narcissistic selfish dictator obssesed with physical appearance and excessive fitness. He ran the company like a circus show, very rarely giving some time off to his wrestlers and abusing them like some owned properties of his. He wants his wrestlers to work all around the year without any breaks. They don't even have any chance to rest after main events not even after wrestlemania. This is why many eventually lose their heads and go totally haywire. There's only so much you can supress with painkillers and off the shelf meds, but sooner or later it will take its toll on your body and you have the choice to either prevent further damage or continue risking your life and that's pretty much how it goes with many wrestlers.
@@RealityOfWrestling They say wisdom is achieved when you can see where a path is leading before walking smack into a dead end. The young and the foolish are having to constantly run into walls before they learn a lesson
@@cubzrulz Nah I don't think so. Even after Eddie had passed, Chris would probably have died 3 or 4 years later because he was in a similar situation to Eddie where his heart was so enlarged due to all the abuse of steroids that he would've died just like Eddie. The only plus side to that is people would proudly remember him as one of the all time greats and no doubt would be a sure fire hall of famer who WWE would praise any chance they could.
This man was the epitome of a consummate professional. The total damn package. Not merely just athletic but his agility and coordination was the best I've seen at that size. He and the Rock man. So agile for their size. But this man inspired this little black kid from the hood during a time when there wasn't much to look up to and I'll always be thankful for him and Big Stevie Ray
Massive respect to Booker for having the wisdom to walk away when he was facing that and also having the courage to openly speak about it. Saying " we might not be having this conversation" says so much.
Booker T was the man, I first discovered Booker T in WCW in the late 90s as the Television Champion. He had a phenomenal look with the flame pants. I immediately decided he was one of my favourites. That entrance theme was incredible too. One of the Greatest of all time.
I was stationed in Adak, Ak in 1992-93 time frame and I remember Ric Flair was in the ring and Harlem Heat came out during his Promo. He looked up at the entrance and said who in the blue hell is Harlem Heat. From that moment on I was a fan of Booker and Stevie Ray. I'm 52 years old and I still keep saying they're going to come back. One can hope right? Thanks for the memories Booker T. You were one of the best to ever do it!!
CryLittleSister 2005-2007 made more money than any other years and every autograph signing and public appearances were sold out. 2001-2004 signing were hit and miss but my lines were around the block while doing this King Booker gimmick. Kids and families loved it.
Whenever I listen to Booker talk wrestling, the business and especially his career, it further cements my belief I've carried ever since the WCW days of 1997 and beyond, and that is that Booker T is one of the top 10 all around performers ever in the business during my lifetime (45 yrs). The only guys I put ahead of him are Angle, Flair, Savage, Bret Hart, Arn Anderson and Benoit. Stories like this explain why for me. This guy has had such a level head and tremendous work ethic/humility and CONFIDENCE that it always showed no matter what company or what gimmick or angle.
I'm glad you guys talked about 2006 and 2007. I started watching WWE in 2006. Smackdown was my favorite. I can't describe the amount of nostalgia I get when I watch an old Smackdown episode from 2006. I tuned in the week after Wrestlemania 22 I believe. Booker wasn't quite King Booker yet. Damn, those are some good memories.
Booker T is the man! RIP to Eddie miss him so much! Also RIP to Benoit hate what transpired at the end of his life but thank you all for the great memories gentlemen.
@@DatBoyQ305 yeah the talent and passion of those guys were amazing and they perfected their craft. Like Big Show said it was a real competition back then but no bad blood just everyone trying to one up each other to push the company.
BT taught me how to go from a skinny 165 lbs to 215lbs by basic movements in the Golds gym in 1996 on Fuqua street. I will never forget him for that. Stevie Ray taught me how to work in the Indies circuit as a referee. They helped me as a young boy. BT would talk to anyone anytime. A real cool Houston guy. TY BT for the help when I was too embarrassed to even go in the gym.
I totally understand why Book would want to leave. Being on the road for so many years, sometimes you just have to put a pause on it and stop and smell the roses.
@Ryan Porchia hell yeah man! He came from a rough beginning and became a champion later in life. His story is inspiring. Plus he seem like a real chill dude to talk to.
Growing up, the only wrestlers to look like me were The Rock & Booker T. I was glued to the TV anytime they performed, definitely a staple in my childhood, my memory of Wrestling.
I remember how entertaining the King Bookah character was. At that point, i wasn’t watching mich wrestling as WWE had started to go away from characters. But when Booker T was King Bookah, i was tuning in to SmackDown every week. The man has it all. Intensity, storyteling, mic work, character. Wish he would come back for one last match. He earned something huge at WrestleMania. Maybe Booker T Vs Randy Orton? Or Booker Vs AJ.
Booker T, DDP and Scott Steiner were the only guys keeping WCW's lights on during it's last year. Everyone else either lost patience altogether with it's fiasco management, or took advantage of it. But not those 3. Even though they were just as frustrated as everyone else, they still worked at a consistently high level. Vince didn't realize or appreciate this enough in my opinion. Yeah, they were the only WCW guys to receive any real push during the early days of the "merger", but none of them, Booker T especially, got the respect they rightly deserved. Booker T should've been upper A tier, elite level talent amongst Rock, Stone Cold, HHH and Taker.
When you take what he says to heart, how many wrestlers have sacrificed, worked non stop on end and so many losses of great wrestlers because they look great externally but on the inside emotionally, organ health and mental health are severely compromised leading to early death 😢
The mid 2000's was when I lost interest in WWE. All my favorite wrestlers were gone at that point. The Rock was in Hollywood,Jericho left to do his thing before he came back at the end of 07, Angle left, Eddie and Benoit died, Book left.
I remember at that time Booker got a wellness violation that he openly disputed right before he quit. Later also said he wasn't happy being on RAW only to be the body for Triple H to lose to.
there was that incident where a chemists list appeared with WWE wrestlers he had supplied drugs to on it ,. it included Randy Orton .on his last warning, , but Booker got Wellness-ed for it,, So he joined the FU Vince brigade at TNA , but diplomatically doesnt give it as ThE reason cause like the others, he went back to WWE..
Booker T one of my fav wrestlers should of been wwe champ. Great all round entertainer hopefully one day I meet you book and love to have a convo with you. Fan over here in the U.K.
Booker, you’ve always been a legend. When I was a little kid I looked up to you. I always will. Your leg drop was amazing. You’re a show stopper. Know we all love you. 🙌🙏❤️
One of the most complete wrestlers. He had it all: agility, stamina, power and his vast Moveset. That's why I always choose him on smackdown vs Raw games
King Booker was my whole child hood he was so funny and I loved how when he got mad he switch up his accent nobody will ever be as entertaining (Except R Truth and MVP) he is the greatest King and World Heavyweight Champion he made everything mean something
Booker T is so underrated as a wrestler and after hearing how deep he went on this one I’d says he’s underrated as a man. I happy to see you and your family doing well you deserve it 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Working in Webster with Henry (vogue) and meeting you in 2012 with RWO. I was so very proud to meet you a few times and talk with you. You definitely changed my life on when to say when. I had left the retail business after 15+ years and started my own business. My family and myself will always thank you from the bottom of our hearts. If you ever come through Central Valley, Ca near Fresno. You’re welcome in our home. God bless Booker
Met Booker at a Comic-Con a year ago! Man the memories of me watchin wrestling with my pops just flowed thru my head as I shook books hand! Real cool dude!
Booker T was one of my favorite since I was a little kid. Harlem Heat were my favorite team when I first started watching and King Booker was hilarious, especially with the faux English accent that would be dropped as soon as he got mad.
King Booker's last match in the WWE was against John Cena and you could never tell that he was tired and overworked. He moved liked a gladiator out there, the quickness, agility, aggression and stamina was all there for a man that was ailing in silence. This just goes to show you the heart and will power of this man originally billed from the tough streets of Harlem NY. Long live King Booker. Wished he would have stayed and got a run with the WWE championship, it would have looked great around his waist with a spinning crown in the middle. Oh well at least he gave Cena a good old fashion kingly ass whooping on his way out the door in a dq finish.
I remember going to a live WCW event in the 90's when he was a part of Harlem Heat and I remember how skilled he was in the ring and how TV doesn't justify how big he is. Dude was a beast in the ring and a all-time great💯💥
I’ve met a hand full of celebrities that have come to Houston and met some since I’ve been in the army, mainly while I was overseas cause they always visit or do a concert some place over there, but one person I hope to meet one day is definitely booker t. He has always come off as a type of person that if he has time to, he will have a quick convo and take some pics with his fans and you gotta respect that.
It takes a lot to just take a step back like that and realize you need a break, especially when it's a career you love. Nothing but love for Booker T, one of the best talents to come out of WCW.
Book, you did what you felt was right so props to you. I too miss Eddie and Benoit in spite of the tragedy that unfolded. You all had such great chemistry in the ring. The best. Loved Harlem Heat, too. FWIW, I very much enjoyed your TNA/Impact run. Very, very funny, and it seems to me like you had a good time. MEM was rad and who could forget BLACK SNOOOOWWWW? :D
For anyone interested, try to track down Dave Chappelle's standup routine where he refers to what's called "Mileage" in prostitutes, which essentially boils down to: you can only turn tricks so long until you eventually go crazy. In a way, I think this applies to wrestling. You can only do it for so long until it breaks you. Look at all the wrestlers that stayed in past their mileage and turned to drugs to cope. I'm glad Booker T was smart enough and brave enough to know that even at the height of your popularity, when it's your time to walk away, you need to walk away. On a personal note, I worked backstage security at an NXT event in Houston in 2018 and Booker T showed up. He was one of the nicest, most well-spoken persons I've ever met. Truly a legend. Thanks for the memories Book!
Booker T was an amazing wrestler and man. I had the opportunity to meet him when I was around 13 and he told us his life story. I never met Sharmel, but she always gave me a very sweet vibe. Hearing him say that if he hadn't walked away when he did, something bad would've happened just speaks volumes. You shouldn't ignore what you're gut tells you. I'm glad him and his family are doing good
Every time Eddie gets brought up I always tear up. He did everything right to help himself. God damnit it breaks my heart and I never had the opportunitie to meet him.
Thank God for sharmell and his children because he made a very wise decision and I'm happy for him and he's in the Hall of Fame he's the best there is😊
Till this day Booker represents a week rounded wrestler, promoter , all around good guy. Takes his profession serious. He didn't just step back. He's still a big part in my pro wrestling enjoyment. Thanks King Bookaaaaaaa
Nobody relied on politics like Triple H. Guy never had the charisma of a Hulk Hogan, the mic skills of a Rock, or the ring skills of a Bret Hart. He is a truly mediocre performer propagandised as one of the greatest ever because he sucked up to the Kliq, and later the McMahons.
Booker T one of my all time favorite wrestlers. Just like a lot of the greats, he started as a tag team. Then transitioned into a single star though in the mid card at first but you could see the potential. When he moved up to the US title and the World title he was so over as a babyface in WCW. I miss those days. WWE ruined him at first, but since hes such a professional and a great wrestler he made the best of it. He outlasted the bs they were giving him and he got over in WWE. He should have been alot bigger sooner and HHH should have done the job for him at wrestlemania. I love me some Booker T, hes so real and down to earth. All I have left to say is... Hulk Hogan, were coming for you.... well you know the rest haha.
King Booker one of my all time favorites. No one can do the axe kick or spinna roonie like Booker. Much love and respect very happy your still around. Thank you KING BOOKER.
Been following Booker T and Stevie Ray since 1996 as a child watching WCW Saturday Night and then when Booker T went on his singles run as TV champ sold me. I remember as a young Black kid being so happy to see two Black men kick ass and take names and Booker especially as been instrumental in my upbringing in my life. I had to work to get good grades in order to watch wrestling and for me it was Rey Mysterio and Booker T who helped to make my crazy childhood a lil bit better. #AllHailKingBOOKAHH
We love you and thank you so much, Book! For you to say that something might've went off in you and you and Brad wouldn't be having that conversation, we just glad that you took the route you did, king.
Never was a big fan as far as storylines go. But never knew this side of the man and good on him for deciding to put family first. Props and respect man.
Lashley vs Brock Sting vs undertaker Stone cold or rock vs randy Orton Braun strowman vs great khali Street profits vs the new day Abyss vs Kane Matt Morgan vs Braun strowman
Booker T was on fire from in 2003-07. I did enjoy his feud with Triple H 2003 he should've won, The Undertaker spring of 2004, John Cena, Chris Benoit, Bobby Lashley, (becoming King Booka), and Batista (Batista vs. King Booker was brilliant and Awesome). Booker was the real jewel I wish he won the WWE championship. I'm just glad he won the World Heavyweight Championship while it was a top tier belt in WWE.
With his performance inside and outside the ring, I put Booker in the ballpark of Rock and Stone Cold. Showmanship and entertaining wrestling. The spin-a-roonie!!
I'm glad to have come across this interview. 😇 Very positive uplifting message. Learning when to say enough and continue to live a simple normal life. Thank you Booker T. King of Champions. 💪
Honestly Booker, the last 30 seconds of your message. Was something I needed to hear. I know you lefted due to Chris and Eddie. I feel the same way, with my family, before this virus; I felt under control and had no leeway. Even though they didn't fully know ME after 30 years, still feels the same. Some say I'm holding myself back, but I also feel that they are too because when I make moves they are behind me and changing it. That's when I know I had to step up on MY OWN... Can you dig that?
One of my favorite matches booker t was involved in when he fought against Chris Benoit best of 7 series for the US championship on smackdown back in 05 they tore the house down
Can you dig it, sucka? Yall were on like neck bone. My god brother and me loved you guys growing up in the 90's when we were kids. Use to make the tag belts out of cardboard and wrestle our my buddy/wrestle buddies. Thanks for the memories.
Just wished the Chris Benoit situation didn’t happen and eddies death! Just wished Chris Benoit was in the hall of fame but it will never happens because of that horrific tragedy! Hopefully he does in the next 5 or 10 years!
Booker T severely underrated. Amazing professional and he was the FIRST big black wrestler who was doing Karate kicks in his Moveset. He's a great athlete
Biggest travesty is hhh not putting booker t over at wrestlemania 19. I know they wanted a hhh vs goldberg fued. Booker t could of at least held the strap until bad blood (june 2003).
Exactly! I've said the exact thing for years
maaaaannnnnnn don't get me started on that match
@@marcusbrown9917 Booker was over af with the fans, WWE totally dropped the ball
Yeah was a disgrace that,people have a go at Hogan & others for politics but HHH is the worst of all time for it
Not to mention HHH vs Goldberg didnt even need the belt to begin with for two good and bad reasons: They were both big name draws and their series of matches was forgettable af!
Literally the most I remember from that feud was Triple H puttin a bounty out on Goldberg's head which almost got him ran over, crushed to death by cinder blocks and attacked on sight by all the heels in the locker room backstage.
"If I hadn't walked away at that time, something bad was gonna happen!" After hearing that, I'm definitely glad that he left WWE when he did!
In the wake of Epstein shit, i wonder if he wouldn't have kids for that reason. nah, i'm thinkin too much...
DJ Statyk lmao wth schitzo
Kurt Angle said the same thing.
Kurt was a drug abuser. He was heavy on the supplements to maintain his shape. Booker T on the other hand was at his peak physique and always seemed to stay healthy. I believe it was the fame and fast life that wore him down and led him to leaving. Vince couldn't careless about his talents well being. Many top wrestlers have lost their lives over the years all in attempt to remain relevant in the business and impress vince who was often notoriously recounted to be a narcissistic selfish dictator obssesed with physical appearance and excessive fitness. He ran the company like a circus show, very rarely giving some time off to his wrestlers and abusing them like some owned properties of his. He wants his wrestlers to work all around the year without any breaks. They don't even have any chance to rest after main events not even after wrestlemania. This is why many eventually lose their heads and go totally haywire. There's only so much you can supress with painkillers and off the shelf meds, but sooner or later it will take its toll on your body and you have the choice to either prevent further damage or continue risking your life and that's pretty much how it goes with many wrestlers.
Drugs... no one person can maintain that type of energy and stamina.
No one can ever do the axe kick like Booker! The elevation even in his Harlem Heat days was insane!
You know it!
I miss the Harlem hangover severely underrated tag finisher.
Fasholy. He also had a great one he pulled off on Vince. One of the best I ever seen from him.
@@jdzspace33 yes! Dude I would love for it to be Nia Jax move.
All facts
I totally get it; You lost two very good friends and had to get out. Any man with a heart can understand that
Somethings you have to walk away even when on the outside things look good.
@@RealityOfWrestling They say wisdom is achieved when you can see where a path is leading before walking smack into a dead end. The young and the foolish are having to constantly run into walls before they learn a lesson
If Benoit had left after Eddie passed (similarly to Booker leaving) Benoit could possibly still be here.
@@cubzrulz Nah I don't think so. Even after Eddie had passed, Chris would probably have died 3 or 4 years later because he was in a similar situation to Eddie where his heart was so enlarged due to all the abuse of steroids that he would've died just like Eddie. The only plus side to that is people would proudly remember him as one of the all time greats and no doubt would be a sure fire hall of famer who WWE would praise any chance they could.
what about the money?
Always loved watching booker T perform was never boring to watch
That’s the highest compliment
@@RealityOfWrestling Booker T will always be entertaining. Loved him as a heel as King Booker back in the day.
He's gold on commentary
@@Your.Chinito he was, and still is! I love his laugh. Gotta give the Book Man some credits.
My top 2 wrestlers to pick in any WWE game
This man was the epitome of a consummate professional. The total damn package. Not merely just athletic but his agility and coordination was the best I've seen at that size. He and the Rock man. So agile for their size. But this man inspired this little black kid from the hood during a time when there wasn't much to look up to and I'll always be thankful for him and Big Stevie Ray
Thanks Daniel means a lot
Well said
Facts
Booker vs Benoit, best of 7...
Those were 5-star matches, folks!
Those were some of the overall best matches that both men had. Which is saying something since they both were amazing workers.
not to mention a 5 star idea.
Amen. They had great chemistry
Massive respect to Booker for having the wisdom to walk away when he was facing that and also having the courage to openly speak about it. Saying " we might not be having this conversation" says so much.
Real talk in this video
Exactly. I respect Booker T’s honesty.
He put himself first, after all these years of working non stop, so the way I see it, Booker did the right thing. Salute✊🏾
✊🏾
Yes, our culture applauds overworking. Not cool.
@@Gameover24able True that
✊🏻
Indeed nothing but props
Booker T was the man, I first discovered Booker T in WCW in the late 90s as the Television Champion. He had a phenomenal look with the flame pants. I immediately decided he was one of my favourites. That entrance theme was incredible too. One of the Greatest of all time.
Thanks for the years of support
I remember him as the tv champ back in wcw '97. He, Benoit, Guerrero, and mysterio were my childhood back then. Harlem heat were a great tag-team.
I was stationed in Adak, Ak in 1992-93 time frame and I remember Ric Flair was in the ring and Harlem Heat came out during his Promo. He looked up at the entrance and said who in the blue hell is Harlem Heat. From that moment on I was a fan of Booker and Stevie Ray. I'm 52 years old and I still keep saying they're going to come back. One can hope right? Thanks for the memories Booker T. You were one of the best to ever do it!!
You are not addressing Booker T
right He is World champion King Booker champion of Champions. Beating John cena and big show
All hail the 👑
King BOOKAH!!
Sorry 2008
He his a 5x 5x 5x 5x 5x WCW Champion after all and also X1 WWE Champion can't forget that
He was world not wwe compy champ.old wcw one 🤔🤔🤔
Booker you quickly became one of my favorite wrestlers during your initial Harlem Heat run in WCW. I thought 🤔 you were a great heel.
Thanks MC loved every minute of it.
@@RealityOfWrestling I always wanted to be a wrestling manager and be a heel like the Dungeon of Doom 🤣🤣
@@mcandrewlove2 that would be pretty cool
What's missing today is close to reality storylines.
I wish we could've gotten Stevie Ray in the WWE. I remember cheering for the Harlem Heat, because I thought they were from my neighborhood.
Would have loved one Harlem Heat match in WWE
WWE hates tag teams so it makes sense that this never happened.
Booker was FAR from his peak of popularity by 2007. His peak was in 2003 before being buried by HHH at WM 19.
CryLittleSister 2005-2007 made more money than any other years and every autograph signing and public appearances were sold out. 2001-2004 signing were hit and miss but my lines were around the block while doing this King Booker gimmick. Kids and families loved it.
Should have been called Texas Heat lol
Whenever I listen to Booker talk wrestling, the business and especially his career, it further cements my belief I've carried ever since the WCW days of 1997 and beyond, and that is that Booker T is one of the top 10 all around performers ever in the business during my lifetime (45 yrs). The only guys I put ahead of him are Angle, Flair, Savage, Bret Hart, Arn Anderson and Benoit. Stories like this explain why for me. This guy has had such a level head and tremendous work ethic/humility and CONFIDENCE that it always showed no matter what company or what gimmick or angle.
Thanks bro!
Mine is undertaker and shawn Micheals also Ric flair
yeah that hes just one of the few wcw holdovers like rey mysterio who succeeded and lasted long in wwe says a lot
Booker T is definitely one of the goats.
I'm glad you guys talked about 2006 and 2007. I started watching WWE in 2006. Smackdown was my favorite. I can't describe the amount of nostalgia I get when I watch an old Smackdown episode from 2006. I tuned in the week after Wrestlemania 22 I believe. Booker wasn't quite King Booker yet. Damn, those are some good memories.
Booker T is the man! RIP to Eddie miss him so much! Also RIP to Benoit hate what transpired at the end of his life but thank you all for the great memories gentlemen.
@Ryan Porchia RIP to 2 legends
✊🏾
The business has gotten the best of some great people. You can tell by hearing other wrestlers talk, how special these guys were
@@DatBoyQ305 yeah the talent and passion of those guys were amazing and they perfected their craft. Like Big Show said it was a real competition back then but no bad blood just everyone trying to one up each other to push the company.
It wasnt Benoit that commited, it was his inner demons 😔
BT taught me how to go from a skinny 165 lbs to 215lbs by basic movements in the Golds gym in 1996 on Fuqua street. I will never forget him for that. Stevie Ray taught me how to work in the Indies circuit as a referee. They helped me as a young boy. BT would talk to anyone anytime. A real cool Houston guy. TY BT for the help when I was too embarrassed to even go in the gym.
Thanks brother!
I totally understand why Book would want to leave. Being on the road for so many years, sometimes you just have to put a pause on it and stop and smell the roses.
Was the best decision ever made and loving life now
You mean sometimes you just have to put a pause on it and smeeeeeelllll WHAT THE ROCK! is COOKIN.......
Hope I can meet Booker 1 day just to tell him thank you for all the hard work he put in, straight up legend.
@Ryan Porchia hell yeah man! He came from a rough beginning and became a champion later in life. His story is inspiring. Plus he seem like a real chill dude to talk to.
If you ever see me around come on over and say hi and get a picture.
@@RealityOfWrestling foreal?! Aw man that would be so dope!! Thank you in advance until I see you around Houston. You guys stay safe out there 🤘🏽✊🏼
Growing up, the only wrestlers to look like me were The Rock & Booker T. I was glued to the TV anytime they performed, definitely a staple in my childhood, my memory of Wrestling.
Comments like that make it all worth it
I remember how entertaining the King Bookah character was. At that point, i wasn’t watching mich wrestling as WWE had started to go away from characters. But when Booker T was King Bookah, i was tuning in to SmackDown every week. The man has it all. Intensity, storyteling, mic work, character. Wish he would come back for one last match. He earned something huge at WrestleMania. Maybe Booker T Vs Randy Orton? Or Booker Vs AJ.
Booker T walked away at the height of his popularity...
...just like Dave Chappelle!! 🤣
Crazy
Good for them fame and fortune isn’t everything
Well Booker just got done seeing Eddie and Benoit bite the dust in totally opposite ways, he had much more of a reason than Dave.
The passing of his two friends and all the racist attacks he went threw.
@ especially back in then days when ppl blew him off for saying it.
Booker T, DDP and Scott Steiner were the only guys keeping WCW's lights on during it's last year. Everyone else either lost patience altogether with it's fiasco management, or took advantage of it. But not those 3. Even though they were just as frustrated as everyone else, they still worked at a consistently high level. Vince didn't realize or appreciate this enough in my opinion. Yeah, they were the only WCW guys to receive any real push during the early days of the "merger", but none of them, Booker T especially, got the respect they rightly deserved. Booker T should've been upper A tier, elite level talent amongst Rock, Stone Cold, HHH and Taker.
When you take what he says to heart, how many wrestlers have sacrificed, worked non stop on end and so many losses of great wrestlers because they look great externally but on the inside emotionally, organ health and mental health are severely compromised leading to early death 😢
Very true
Booker T is my Hero. Damn I miss the days with Goldust and Booker It was a great time 🔥🔥 Can you dig that
Great times and amazing memories
They had some funny skits together. Especially, that 7-Eleven one. Haha 🙂
The mid 2000's was when I lost interest in WWE. All my favorite wrestlers were gone at that point. The Rock was in Hollywood,Jericho left to do his thing before he came back at the end of 07, Angle left, Eddie and Benoit died, Book left.
Was a rough time
Christain, rhyno, Kevin nash, scott Steiner lot of wrestler's went to tna.
Same i stop watching after Benoit died. 1997-2006 was dope. But 1997 to 2003 was the best time.of my life
The Rock: “What is your name?”
Booker T: “Booker T sucka!”
The Rock: “So your name is Booker T sucka?!?!?”
It's actually "im the wcw champion sucka..."... in response to "who the hell are you?" Question asked by the rock ...
Funni
Booker T was always so much fun to watch perform in the ring. Him, Shawn, Razor, Nash and Bret were always very entertaining.
Eddie and Booker is two of my fave wrestlers ever and him and Booker had great chemistry too. So sad to see Eddie die.
Booker T was the man solo and as a tag team with his Brother, Stevie Ray as the Harlem Heat.
I remember at that time Booker got a wellness violation that he openly disputed right before he quit. Later also said he wasn't happy being on RAW only to be the body for Triple H to lose to.
Mentally drained at the time and had to stand up for myself and well being.
Reality Of Wrestling we stand with you booker
@@RealityOfWrestling We love you and Stevie Ray, Booker! Thank you guys for all of the awesome matches and memories!!
@@RealityOfWrestling I can dig it
there was that incident where a chemists list appeared with WWE wrestlers he had supplied drugs to on it ,. it included Randy Orton .on his last warning, , but Booker got Wellness-ed for it,, So he joined the FU Vince brigade at TNA , but diplomatically doesnt give it as ThE reason cause like the others, he went back to WWE..
Booker T sounds a lot like Cedric The Entertainer 😂😂
Thanks for the memories Booker T! Would love to meet you one day!
Booker T one of my fav wrestlers should of been wwe champ. Great all round entertainer hopefully one day I meet you book and love to have a convo with you. Fan over here in the U.K.
Hope we meet one day! Keep working hard and chasing your goals
@@RealityOfWrestling Thank you much appreciated very hard but I keep you trying.
Book your such a knowledgeable guy, and I completely understand that decision👍
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Booker, you’ve always been a legend. When I was a little kid I looked up to you. I always will. Your leg drop was amazing. You’re a show stopper. Know we all love you. 🙌🙏❤️
🙌
One of the most complete wrestlers. He had it all: agility, stamina, power and his vast Moveset. That's why I always choose him on smackdown vs Raw games
King Booker was my whole child hood he was so funny and I loved how when he got mad he switch up his accent nobody will ever be as entertaining (Except R Truth and MVP) he is the greatest King and World Heavyweight Champion he made everything mean something
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Booker T is so underrated as a wrestler and after hearing how deep he went on this one I’d says he’s underrated as a man. I happy to see you and your family doing well you deserve it 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
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Working in Webster with Henry (vogue) and meeting you in 2012 with RWO. I was so very proud to meet you a few times and talk with you. You definitely changed my life on when to say when. I had left the retail business after 15+ years and started my own business. My family and myself will always thank you from the bottom of our hearts. If you ever come through Central Valley, Ca near Fresno. You’re welcome in our home. God bless Booker
Thanks for the kind words
Met Booker at a Comic-Con a year ago! Man the memories of me watchin wrestling with my pops just flowed thru my head as I shook books hand! Real cool dude!
Always try to make a meeting experience a good one :)
Oh. He choked up when he mentioned Eddie and I choked up when he mentioned Eddie.
RIP
Booker T was one of my favorite since I was a little kid. Harlem Heat were my favorite team when I first started watching and King Booker was hilarious, especially with the faux English accent that would be dropped as soon as he got mad.
Thanks!
King Booker's last match in the WWE was against John Cena and you could never tell that he was tired and overworked. He moved liked a gladiator out there, the quickness, agility, aggression and stamina was all there for a man that was ailing in silence. This just goes to show you the heart and will power of this man originally billed from the tough streets of Harlem NY. Long live King Booker. Wished he would have stayed and got a run with the WWE championship, it would have looked great around his waist with a spinning crown in the middle. Oh well at least he gave Cena a good old fashion kingly ass whooping on his way out the door in a dq finish.
Thanks bro that means a lot
They gooo through so much to entertain us. Its why I always respected what these men & women superstars do/did. Much respect
I remember going to a live WCW event in the 90's when he was a part of Harlem Heat and I remember how skilled he was in the ring and how TV doesn't justify how big he is. Dude was a beast in the ring and a all-time great💯💥
Thanks Fam
I’ve met a hand full of celebrities that have come to Houston and met some since I’ve been in the army, mainly while I was overseas cause they always visit or do a concert some place over there, but one person I hope to meet one day is definitely booker t. He has always come off as a type of person that if he has time to, he will have a quick convo and take some pics with his fans and you gotta respect that.
If you ever run into me feel free to say Hey!
Always just trying to treat people the way they treat me!
It takes a lot to just take a step back like that and realize you need a break, especially when it's a career you love. Nothing but love for Booker T, one of the best talents to come out of WCW.
That fake laugh is kill me Everytime 😂😂
Booker t v Rock would have been a nice run, even if they tag-teamed a bit..
Book, you did what you felt was right so props to you. I too miss Eddie and Benoit in spite of the tragedy that unfolded. You all had such great chemistry in the ring. The best. Loved Harlem Heat, too. FWIW, I very much enjoyed your TNA/Impact run. Very, very funny, and it seems to me like you had a good time. MEM was rad and who could forget BLACK SNOOOOWWWW? :D
Everyone misses Eddie 😢 Wow Booker paints a great picture of seeing things
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For anyone interested, try to track down Dave Chappelle's standup routine where he refers to what's called "Mileage" in prostitutes, which essentially boils down to: you can only turn tricks so long until you eventually go crazy.
In a way, I think this applies to wrestling. You can only do it for so long until it breaks you. Look at all the wrestlers that stayed in past their mileage and turned to drugs to cope. I'm glad Booker T was smart enough and brave enough to know that even at the height of your popularity, when it's your time to walk away, you need to walk away.
On a personal note, I worked backstage security at an NXT event in Houston in 2018 and Booker T showed up. He was one of the nicest, most well-spoken persons I've ever met. Truly a legend. Thanks for the memories Book!
I can dig on it.
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Suuuucka!
When I thought of booker saying
"Doing what you love can destroy you". I thought of Benoit... 😣😥
😢
Booker T was an amazing wrestler and man. I had the opportunity to meet him when I was around 13 and he told us his life story. I never met Sharmel, but she always gave me a very sweet vibe. Hearing him say that if he hadn't walked away when he did, something bad would've happened just speaks volumes. You shouldn't ignore what you're gut tells you. I'm glad him and his family are doing good
Always just trying to treat people the way id like to be treated
Every time Eddie gets brought up I always tear up. He did everything right to help himself. God damnit it breaks my heart and I never had the opportunitie to meet him.
Same! 😢
Thank God for sharmell and his children because he made a very wise decision and I'm happy for him and he's in the Hall of Fame he's the best there is😊
Till this day Booker represents a week rounded wrestler, promoter , all around good guy. Takes his profession serious. He didn't just step back. He's still a big part in my pro wrestling enjoyment. Thanks King Bookaaaaaaa
Triple H’s ego will never put Booker T over.
yeah he's crap
Nobody relied on politics like Triple H. Guy never had the charisma of a Hulk Hogan, the mic skills of a Rock, or the ring skills of a Bret Hart. He is a truly mediocre performer propagandised as one of the greatest ever because he sucked up to the Kliq, and later the McMahons.
@@jpalvarez4972 Bro I say this all the time. Real ones know the difference.
I can see a Booker and Lashley fued brewing
I LOVE BOOKER T! One of my favorites
Booker T was a top talent in a age of top talents, sucks he missed the No Mercy cut off for the N64
His whole move set was available. I remember creating him
That was 20 years ago and you're still upset about it? 😅
I needed this closure. I never understood why he walked away. All these years I wondered why he just disappeared. Booker T was a blast to watch.
Booker T been a Class Act since GI Bro in WCCW
BT/HHH didn't main event Summerslam 07. Orton/Cena did.
Booker T one of my all time favorite wrestlers. Just like a lot of the greats, he started as a tag team. Then transitioned into a single star though in the mid card at first but you could see the potential. When he moved up to the US title and the World title he was so over as a babyface in WCW. I miss those days. WWE ruined him at first, but since hes such a professional and a great wrestler he made the best of it. He outlasted the bs they were giving him and he got over in WWE. He should have been alot bigger sooner and HHH should have done the job for him at wrestlemania. I love me some Booker T, hes so real and down to earth. All I have left to say is...
Hulk Hogan, were coming for you.... well you know the rest haha.
King Booker one of my all time favorites. No one can do the axe kick or spinna roonie like Booker. Much love and respect very happy your still around. Thank you KING BOOKER.
4:33 he's talking about his eldest son Brandon Huffman
One of my favs, wish they would have given him more opportunities, such a great entertaining athlete
King BOOKAAAHH is one of my favorite runs in that era. I loved his gimmick and how he performed.
Thank you to my loyal subjects 👑
Been following Booker T and Stevie Ray since 1996 as a child watching WCW Saturday Night and then when Booker T went on his singles run as TV champ sold me. I remember as a young Black kid being so happy to see two Black men kick ass and take names and Booker especially as been instrumental in my upbringing in my life. I had to work to get good grades in order to watch wrestling and for me it was Rey Mysterio and Booker T who helped to make my crazy childhood a lil bit better. #AllHailKingBOOKAHH
Booker T was one helluva a performer. Definitely one of the best to do it.
Most wrestlers in that situation wouldn’t even pull what booker did. That’s a real man move, thought about his mentality health and family 💯
Thanks for the support. Mental health is real and important
Such a great guy and performer! Glad to see you in good health and got out when you did!😊😊😊
Thanks! Loving life home with the family
We love you and thank you so much, Book! For you to say that something might've went off in you and you and Brad wouldn't be having that conversation, we just glad that you took the route you did, king.
Sometimes it's not just the C and C (cash and creative) as JR says, but the schedule grind that gets you guys. Respect to you all!
100 perfect
Never was a big fan as far as storylines go. But never knew this side of the man and good on him for deciding to put family first. Props and respect man.
Lashley vs Brock
Sting vs undertaker
Stone cold or rock vs randy Orton
Braun strowman vs great khali
Street profits vs the new day
Abyss vs Kane
Matt Morgan vs Braun strowman
The WE sure teased the hell out of us with those guys steady crossing each other’s paths. But NO MATCH!!! Thanks a lot Vince lol!
von2300 who crossed paths?
@@Toobbaa Rock and Orton did but that's all that I know of. I still think we get Lashley vs Brock one day and Street profits vs New Day could happen
Braun Strowman vs 1998 Kane, Diesel, Sycho Sid or Big John Studd.
Much respect book
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Met this dude at Benihana what a solid dude nice guy . Said thanks to me and my brother for being his fans since wcw. Class act
Always nice to hear these stories
I miss seeing booker T looking at his hand like he's in shock.
Chris and Eddie two and best WWE Performer (from Italy 🇮🇹✌)
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I would have loved to see a baby face run with King Booker
Could have been fun :)
You mean King BOOKAAAH!
Booker T was on fire from in 2003-07. I did enjoy his feud with Triple H 2003 he should've won, The Undertaker spring of 2004, John Cena, Chris Benoit, Bobby Lashley, (becoming King Booka), and Batista (Batista vs. King Booker was brilliant and Awesome). Booker was the real jewel I wish he won the WWE championship. I'm just glad he won the World Heavyweight Championship while it was a top tier belt in WWE.
them booker T promos back back then where 24k gold!!! 🏆 💥🔥 🔥🔥!!!!!!
With his performance inside and outside the ring, I put Booker in the ballpark of Rock and Stone Cold.
Showmanship and entertaining wrestling.
The spin-a-roonie!!
I'm glad to have come across this interview. 😇 Very positive uplifting message. Learning when to say enough and continue to live a simple normal life. Thank you Booker T. King of Champions. 💪
Thanks Richard
This needs to come back and show these kids how to do the scissor kick right.
"Here lies booker T one of the best wrestlers and one of the best performers and entertainers". Fixed that headstone for you booker👍
😂😂🙏
Christ Benoit, Eddie Guerrero, and Booker T, I miss seeing those names in wrestling....
Honestly Booker, the last 30 seconds of your message. Was something I needed to hear. I know you lefted due to Chris and Eddie. I feel the same way, with my family, before this virus; I felt under control and had no leeway. Even though they didn't fully know ME after 30 years, still feels the same. Some say I'm holding myself back, but I also feel that they are too because when I make moves they are behind me and changing it. That's when I know I had to step up on MY OWN... Can you dig that?
Glad could help in some way!
@@RealityOfWrestling You did!
One of my favorite matches booker t was involved in when he fought against Chris Benoit best of 7 series for the US championship on smackdown back in 05 they tore the house down
Can you dig it, sucka? Yall were on like neck bone. My god brother and me loved you guys growing up in the 90's when we were kids. Use to make the tag belts out of cardboard and wrestle our my buddy/wrestle buddies. Thanks for the memories.
I was a high school junior going on senior back when the 2007 Benoit Family Tragedy happened.
I was in middle school.
Benoit's murder-suicide is the 9/11 of wrestling. Every fan will remember where they were when they first heard about it.
Booker T is so awesome, he and Eddie are definitely in my top five fav wwe wrestlers. Booker should’ve been WWE champion.
Thanks! Means a lot
Just wished the Chris Benoit situation didn’t happen and eddies death! Just wished Chris Benoit was in the hall of fame but it will never happens because of that horrific tragedy! Hopefully he does in the next 5 or 10 years!
It will never happen 😒
Booker T severely underrated. Amazing professional and he was the FIRST big black wrestler who was doing Karate kicks in his Moveset. He's a great athlete
Watched him since WCW, Harlem Heat, one of the greatest TagTeams 4 Live, Booker we miss you, stay save, big greets from Germany !
Thanks for the years of support