5 Things you didn't know about Sgt. Slaughter

#2. He Was Dangerously Over As A Heel

Sgt. Slaughter, Turncoat Version

Once Sgt. Slaughter's Hasbro deal had come to its completion, Slaughter was welcomed back to WWE. Only this time, Vince McMahon had different plans. Instead of being a babyface, Slaughter would become wrestling's most despised heel. Just as the company had previously used the political climate to boost Slaughter as an all-American hero, WWE would use the 1991 Gulf War to boost Slaughter's newfound heel character.

McMahon wanted Slaughter to turn against the United States and join forces with Iraqi President Saddam Hussein. Slaughter obliged, but the terrain was paved with danger. Fans were incensed. How could Sgt. Slaughter turn his back on the country he once fervently loved and defended?

The country united in support of the troops and the Gulf War. Patriotism was at an all-time high. Unfortunately, jingoism, patriotism's evil cousin, was also prevalent and this proved menacing for Slaughter.

Many fans had difficulty deciphering between scripted entertainment and reality. Tensions rose and Slaughter's life was soon in jeopardy. The WWE Superstar was refused service at restaurants and even received death threats.

Slaughter described a conversation with Vince McMahon during that era,

"Somebody called the wrestling office this morning and threatened to kill you, kill me, kill our family, blow up our houses, blow up the office, blow up the studio, and I just thought it would be a good precaution to get your wife out of the house."

Despite the threats, Slaughter remained steadfast and brave. He defeated The Ultimate Warrior for the WWE Championship at the Royal Rumble and would go on to main event WrestleMania VII against Hulk Hogan.