The world of professional wrestling is a captivating blend of athleticism, showmanship, and compelling storytelling. One of the most intriguing and enduring elements of this world is the use of factions, groups of wrestlers who band together, often driven by shared goals or ideologies. Among the most memorable and impactful factions in wrestling history is the Serpent Society, a group of wrestlers who were known for their cunning, their focus on the technical side of wrestling, and their connection to the legendary manager, Jim Cornette. While the Serpent Society may not be as widely recognized as some of the other legendary wrestling factions, their impact on the sport and their unique story within the wrestling world remains significant.
What is the Serpent Society?
The Serpent Society is a wrestling faction that was formed in 1990 in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE). The faction was a group of technically skilled wrestlers, led by manager Jim Cornette, who were known for their cunning tactics and their willingness to do whatever it took to win. The Serpent Society was a powerful force in the WWF, and their presence had a lasting impact on the landscape of professional wrestling.
The History of the Serpent Society
The Serpent Society was created by WWF owner Vince McMahon as a direct response to the popularity of a similar faction, the “Four Horsemen,” who were popular in rival promotion WCW. The Serpent Society was meant to be a counter to the Four Horsemen, and they were presented as a group of wrestlers with a similar level of skill and intensity.
The original members of the Serpent Society included:
- The Honky Tonk Man: A flamboyant wrestler known for his over-the-top personality and his legendary WWF Intercontinental Championship reign.
- Rick Martel: A technical wrestler known for his signature “Arrogance” gimmick and his “Spray Tan” finishing maneuver.
- Bobby “The Brain” Heenan: The legendary manager of many top WWF stars, known for his witty, often scathing commentary on the wrestlers and the sport itself. Heenan was primarily a manager, but he was also known for his comedic skills and his ability to add excitement to matches. He joined the Serpent Society as a manager after being fired as the manager of The Brain Busters.
The Serpent Society went through various lineup changes over the course of its existence, with other notable wrestlers who joined the faction including:
- Ted DiBiase: A charismatic and cunning wrestler who was known for his “Million Dollar Man” gimmick. DiBiase’s inclusion in the Serpent Society was a significant moment as it brought a lot of star power to the group.
- Mr. Perfect: A technical wrestler known for his flawless in-ring skills and his “Perfect” gimmick. Mr. Perfect’s addition to the group brought in a sense of high-class professionalism.
Why the Serpent Society Was So Unique
The Serpent Society’s unique style and approach made them one of the most intriguing factions in professional wrestling history. Here are some of the key elements that set them apart:
- The “Snake” Gimmick: The Serpent Society utilized a unique and memorable gimmick, often utilizing symbolism and imagery that reflected their cunning and deceptive nature. They used snakes in their entrance themes and merchandise, and their logo often featured a snake coiled around a wrestling championship belt.
- Cornette’s Management: The Serpent Society’s manager, Jim Cornette, played a significant role in the group’s success. Cornette was a master of using words and creating compelling storylines, and his management style allowed him to push his wrestlers to their limits. Cornette’s “stick-and-carrot” approach to managing wrestlers was a key factor in the group’s success.
The Legacy of the Serpent Society
The Serpent Society’s legacy is still felt today, and their impact on professional wrestling is undeniable. They are remembered for their memorable characters, their unique and intriguing gimmick, and their ability to create compelling storylines that captivated audiences. They helped shape the landscape of professional wrestling and paved the way for future factions to be built with a unique flair and distinctive style.
The Serpent Society: A Reminder of the Importance of Storytelling in Wrestling
The Serpent Society is a testament to the power of storytelling in professional wrestling. The faction’s unique characters, their complex storylines, and their compelling manager, Jim Cornette, helped to create a memorable and lasting impact on the wrestling world. The Serpent Society reminds us that even the most seemingly simple wrestling gimmicks can be transformed into something truly remarkable when coupled with talented wrestlers and creative storylines.
What’s Next for the Serpent Society?
While the Serpent Society is no longer an active wrestling faction, their legacy lives on. With the rise of wrestling-themed video games like WWE 2K, fans can still experience the excitement and intrigue of the Serpent Society through their gameplay and storylines. It’s always possible that the Serpent Society could be resurrected at some point in the future, bringing back their signature style and intriguing storytelling to a new generation of wrestling fans.
FAQ
What is the significance of the name “Serpent Society”?
The name “Serpent Society” was chosen to reflect the faction’s cunning, deceptive nature, and their ability to strike without warning. The snake is often associated with these qualities, making it a fitting symbol for the group.
Why did the Serpent Society break up?
The Serpent Society disbanded in 1992 due to several factors, including lineup changes, the departure of key members, and the shift in focus of the WWF’s storylines. While their time together was relatively short, they left a lasting impact on the world of professional wrestling.
Is there a possibility of the Serpent Society reforming?
While the Serpent Society is currently inactive, it’s always possible that they could be resurrected in the future. The current wrestling landscape, with its emphasis on nostalgia and iconic moments, makes the return of the Serpent Society a distinct possibility.
Are there any current wrestlers that would be a good fit for the Serpent Society?
There are several current wrestlers who could be a good fit for the Serpent Society, depending on the direction the group would take in the future. For example, a wrestler known for their technical skills and their ability to create compelling storylines, such as [Insert Wrestler Name Here] would be a great addition to the group.
How can I learn more about the Serpent Society?
There are many resources available for fans who want to learn more about the Serpent Society, including:
- Online Forums: Many online wrestling forums have dedicated threads discussing the history and legacy of the Serpent Society.
- Wrestling Websites: Websites like WWE.com and Cagematch.net offer extensive information on the Serpent Society, their members, and their impact on the wrestling world.
- YouTube Videos: Search for “Serpent Society” on YouTube to find a wealth of videos, including interviews with members of the faction, match highlights, and documentaries.
The Original Serpent Society Logo
The Serpent Society Members
Jim Cornette Managing the Serpent Society
The Serpent Society’s legacy is one of cunning, technical prowess, and compelling storytelling. Their impact on the world of professional wrestling continues to be felt, and they remain a fascinating subject for wrestling fans today.