Chris Jericho Played a Part in Possibly Ruining David Benoit’s In-Ring Debut

A new edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter claims that Chris Jericho played a part in possibly ruining David Benoit’s in-ring debut. Benoit was supposed to make his professional wrestling debut during Smith Hart’s “Hart Legacy” event in July, but will likely no longer be appearing on the card due to his partner’s cancelation and Jericho’s involvement.

Bret Hart’s older brother Smith advertised that Benoit would be making his debut alongside of Chavo Guerrero during the “Hart Legacy” event. However, this was basically more of a marketing ploy to help Hart draw more money and attention, seeing as though Benoit has never been formally trained to compete in the ring.

Jericho, who is a close friend to Benoit, reportedly contacted Hart’s promotion upon hearing the news that Benoit had been booked for the show. Jericho was apparently very angry with Hart and the promotion for advertising a match featuring Benoit, even though he had absolutely zero experience in the ring, and tried to get the match pulled from the card.

Chavo Guerrero, who was supposed to tag with Benoit, called and canceled his appearance following Jericho’s fight to get the match removed from the card. Reportedly, Hart had told Guerrero that Benoit actually had some in-ring experience and “would be fine for their match.”

Hart told Jericho that he actually never wanted Benoit to wrestle, but that he wanted him there for publicity and to work an angle. However, it seems as if Benoit’s participation in the event may not happen at all now. Benoit has enrolled for training at Lance Storm’s facility multiple times, but never showed up to actually participate. Apparently Benoit once pursued Triple H and William Regal about training and becoming a superstar, and they recommended that he finish school, then try Storm’s academy.

Editor’s Note:

Wow. I mean. Benoit obviously is a name that people are going to be interested in. It’s going to draw attention to your product…but is it the kind that you want? Questions to ask ourselves.