The Art of Elevating Others: Why MVP’s Critique of Triple H Hits Harder Than a Wrestling Slam
Let’s start with a bold statement: wrestling isn’t just about the moves in the ring—it’s about the stories you tell and the stars you create along the way. Recently, AEW star MVP called out WWE’s Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque for what he sees as a career-long failure to elevate others. And honestly? It’s a critique that’s as sharp as it is necessary.
The Undertaker vs. Triple H: A Tale of Two Legacies
MVP’s comparison between The Undertaker and Triple H is more than just wrestling gossip—it’s a masterclass in legacy-building. The Undertaker, in MVP’s words, is a guy who ‘made’ other stars, even if they were, well, let’s say less than stellar (looking at you, Great Khali). Triple H? Not so much. MVP claims The Game only elevated two names: Randy Orton and Batista. Personally, I think this is where the conversation gets fascinating.
What makes this particularly interesting is the unspoken rule in wrestling: a true legend doesn’t just shine—they make others shine too. The Undertaker’s willingness to put others over, even when it meant taking a backseat, speaks volumes about his understanding of the business. Triple H, on the other hand, seems to have played the game differently. In my opinion, his ‘Reign of Terror’ in 2003 wasn’t just bad booking—it was a missed opportunity to build a new generation of stars.
The Jeff Hardy Moment: A Missed Opportunity?
One thing that immediately stands out is MVP’s recollection of Triple H’s match with Jeff Hardy. Instead of selling the loss like a pro, Triple H sat up smiling, essentially robbing Hardy of a career-defining moment. If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just about one match—it’s about a mindset. Wrestling is as much about storytelling as it is about athleticism, and Triple H’s refusal to fully commit to putting Hardy over feels like a missed chapter in WWE history.
What this really suggests is that Triple H’s approach was more about self-preservation than legacy-building. And while there’s nothing wrong with being a top guy, the greatest stars understand that their time in the spotlight is temporary. Elevating others isn’t just good for the business—it’s good for your own legacy.
The Bigger Picture: What Does This Mean for Wrestling?
This raises a deeper question: what does it mean to be a ‘valuable’ wrestler? Is it about drawing money, or is it about leaving the industry better than you found it? From my perspective, MVP’s critique isn’t just about Triple H—it’s about the culture of wrestling itself. Too often, stars prioritize their own shine over the collective glow of the roster.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how MVP jokes about Triple H’s backstage politics. The idea of Triple H telling Vince McMahon, ‘Maybe he’s not ready yet,’ feels like a metaphor for a larger issue in wrestling. How many potential stars have been held back because the top guys weren’t willing to share the spotlight?
Looking Ahead: Can Wrestling Change Its Ways?
If there’s one thing MVP’s comments highlight, it’s the need for a shift in wrestling culture. Personally, I think the industry is at a crossroads. With promotions like AEW embracing a more collaborative approach, the old guard’s reluctance to elevate others feels increasingly outdated.
What many people don’t realize is that wrestling’s future depends on its ability to create new stars. The Undertaker’s approach—putting others over while still maintaining his own mystique—should be the gold standard. Triple H’s legacy, while impressive, feels incomplete because of his apparent reluctance to do the same.
Final Thoughts: The Legacy We Leave Behind
In the end, MVP’s critique isn’t just about Triple H—it’s about the kind of legacy we want wrestling to have. Do we want it to be a sport where stars shine alone, or one where they light the way for others? Personally, I’m team Undertaker on this one. Elevating others isn’t just good for the business—it’s good for the soul.
So, the next time you watch a match, ask yourself: who’s telling the story, and who’s being left out of it? Because in wrestling, as in life, the way we lift others says everything about who we are.
