Wrestlers Who Can’t Stand Ric Flair: Behind the Nature Boy’s Backstage Heat

One Big Thing

Despite his legendary status, Ric Flair’s backstage reputation has created lasting tensions with several prominent wrestlers, stemming from his behavior during “The Plane Ride from Hell” and his controversial conduct in WCW and WWE.

Key Details

• Flair’s 50-year career spans from AWA (1972) to his final match in 2022
• Self-admitted consumption of 20 drinks daily during his peak years
• Recently partnered with Mike Tyson in the cannabis industry
• Suffered an unknown heart attack during his 2022 retirement match

Notable Conflicts

Shane Douglas

The former ECW champion has repeatedly criticized Flair’s in-ring abilities and professional conduct. Douglas claims Flair sabotaged younger talent’s opportunities in WCW.

Bret Hart

Hart has been vocal about his dislike for Flair’s wrestling style and backstage politics. Their tension peaked during Flair’s WWE championship run in 1992.

Why It Matters

These conflicts reveal the complex nature of wrestling’s backstage environment and how personal conduct can affect professional relationships, even for decorated veterans like Flair.

By The Numbers

• 16 recognized world championship reigns
• 50+ year career span
• 2-time WWE Hall of Fame inductee (2008, 2012)

The Bottom Line

While Flair’s in-ring legacy is secure, his backstage behavior has created lasting rifts with fellow performers, highlighting the often-complicated nature of professional wrestling relationships.

What’s your take on Ric Flair’s legacy? Has his recent behavior affected your view of the Nature Boy? Share your thoughts in the comments below.