One WWE extra apparently ruined their chances of getting another opportunity with the company, all because they wanted a picture with The Undertaker. What seemed like an innocent attempt to meet a wrestling legend turned into a costly mistake, as the person was never invited back to work for WWE.
Former WWE Superstar James Ellsworth revealed the story during a recent interview Developmentally Speaking, where he discussed his early days working as an extra before landing a full-time WWE contract in 2016. Ellsworth explained that being backstage for the first time could be overwhelming, especially when names like Vince McMahon, Triple H, Stephanie McMahon, and The Undertaker were walking around like it was just another day at the office.
Ellsworth said he was lucky to have spent years wrestling on the independent scene before getting backstage at WWE. That experience helped him keep his cool around major stars, something he believes younger wrestlers might struggle with. He then brought up someone who apparently couldn’t resist trying to get a picture with The Undertaker.
“The first time I went up there I took it all in. I was like, this is cool, but after that again I was, you know, mentally prepared for it. Thank God I didn’t go when I was younger cuz I knew how to keep my cool and not, you know, like, ‘Oh my God, it’s The Undertaker. I need to get a picture,’ or anything stupid like that, which it’s funny somebody did that. That’s why I say it.”
That person apparently never got another shot at working backstage for WWE. Ellsworth made it clear that extras weren’t supposed to treat the workplace like a meet-and-greet, and asking major stars for pictures could have consequences.
“You know, they were never invited. They were never invited back again. And, you know, those things like you don’t want to go there and be like, ‘Wow, it’s The Rock. I got to get a picture.’ Or you’re just an extra. They’re going to, you know, tell you here’s the door.”
Ellsworth didn’t name the person involved or reveal when the incident took place. He also didn’t say whether The Undertaker had any issue with the photo request or who decided not to bring the extra back. The only detail he provided was that someone tried to get a picture and never received another invitation.
It’s a tough way to lose an opportunity, especially considering how many independent wrestlers hope that one WWE appearance might lead to something bigger. Extras are often brought in to play security guards, stand in the background, or take a beating in a quick television match. But those appearances can also be a wrestler’s first chance to make an impression on WWE officials.
Do you think WWE was too strict by never inviting the extra back after they tried to get a picture with The Undertaker, or should anyone working backstage already know those boundaries? Let us know what you think in the comments below.
This transcript was produced exclusively for Ringside News from the original recording. Republishing the transcription in full is prohibited. When using excerpts, provide prominent credit and a link to this article.
