Teddy Long Recalls Shocking Moment He Was Named WWE SmackDown General Manager

Teddy Long still remembers the night he was named the General Manager of WWE's SmackDown like it was yesterday. In an exclusive interview, he revealed how he learned about the shocking news that would change the course of his WWE career forever.

Long's journey to becoming SmackDown's top authority figure began in 2004, when he was an on-screen character and a referee. He had been working hard to make a name for himself in the WWE Universe, but little did he know that he was on the cusp of something big. During his appearance on David Otunga's YouTube channel, Long shared the incredible story of how he found out he was being appointed General Manager.

It was just five minutes before the show went on the air that Long received the news from a writer. "There was never anything talked to me about being general manager, nothing," he said. "The way I found out that I was going to be the general manager is about 5 minutes before we went live. One of the writers came to me and told me. He said, 'Hey, you know what's happening tonight?' I said, 'No, I don't.' He says, 'Vince is going to make you the general manager. Now, we got four minutes before we go live, okay?'" Long recalled, reliving the moments leading up to his historic appointment.

With only minutes to spare, Long had to get into character and prepare for his new role. He remembered the brief that WWE gave him, outlining the kind of character they wanted him to play. However, Long being the authentic and charismatic person he is, decided to take a different approach. "See, here's what they wanted me to be like. They wanted me to be a character, but see, I was never a character. I was me. You see me today, I'm the same guy. Player, holler at everybody. I'm just me," he explained. And that's exactly what he did.

Long's appointment as General Manager was a defining moment in his WWE career, and he credits Vince McMahon with believing in him. "Vince was a fan of my work, and he thought I wasn't used properly by other promotions in my career," Long revealed. With this newfound opportunity, Long was able to showcase his talents and connect with the WWE Universe in a way he never thought possible.

Looking back, Long's time as General Manager of SmackDown was a pivotal moment in WWE history. He brought a unique style and charisma to the role, and his legacy continues to inspire wrestlers and fans alike. As we reflect on that unforgettable night, we're reminded of the power of believing in oneself and taking risks to achieve greatness.