Francine, the trailblazing manager and valet from Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), has recently shared a candid account of her tumultuous exit from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). Speaking on the podcast “Stories with Brisco & Bradshaw,” the 52-year-old wrestling veteran revealed that a disagreement with WWE Chairman Vince McMahon led to her abrupt departure from the company in 2006.
Francine, known for her iconic persona as the “Queen of Extreme,” had a storied career in ECW, where she spent seven years under the tutelage of Paul Heyman. Following ECW’s demise in 2001, Francine received an offer to join WWE, which would have reunited her with Justin Credible as part of the X-Factor faction. However, she declined the opportunity, instead opting to join the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) in 2002.
Francine eventually signed with WWE’s newly rebranded ECW in 2005, but her stint was short-lived. She recounts a heated confrontation with Vince McMahon, which ultimately led to her asking for her release from the company. Her final match for WWE took place on the September 26, 2006, edition of ECW.
Francine’s experience serves as a poignant reminder that not all departures from WWE are amicable. Her story is a testament to the complex and often tumultuous nature of the professional wrestling industry.
Meanwhile, Paul Heyman, another ECW stalwart, was recently inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony, held during WrestleMania 40 in Philadelphia, was a fitting tribute to Heyman’s contributions to the sport. Stephanie McMahon, WWE’s Chief Brand Officer, paid homage to Heyman by wearing one of his signature Kangol hats, a nod to her own ECW roots.
As the wrestling world continues to evolve, Francine’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate web of relationships and power dynamics that shape the industry. While Paul Heyman’s Hall of Fame induction is a testament to his enduring legacy, one cannot help but wonder if Francine, the original Queen of Extreme, will ever receive similar recognition for her groundbreaking contributions to the sport.