Eddie Guerrero's 2006: What Really Happened?

The wrestling world was forever changed by the tragic and untimely passing of Eddie Guerrero on November 13, 2005. He was only 38 years old, and his death sent shockwaves throughout the industry and beyond. While we all mourned the loss of this incredible performer, many fans have questions about what 2006 might have held for "Latino Heat." What were the plans for Eddie Guerrero in 2006? What storylines were being considered, and what potential rivalries were on the horizon? This article aims to explore those questions and delve into what could have been, piecing together information from various sources to paint a picture of Eddie’s potential future in WWE.

Eddie Guerrero's Legacy and Impact

Before diving into the specifics of what might have been planned for 2006, it's crucial to understand the immense impact Eddie Guerrero had on the wrestling world. Eddie wasn't just a wrestler; he was an entertainer, a storyteller, and an icon. His charisma was infectious, his in-ring skills were unparalleled, and his ability to connect with the audience was truly special. He could play the villain just as convincingly as he could play the hero, and his catchphrase, "I Lie! I Cheat! I Steal!", became a rallying cry for fans who loved his mischievous persona. Guerrero's journey to the top was filled with trials and tribulations, including battles with addiction and personal demons. However, he persevered and ultimately achieved his dream of becoming WWE Champion, defeating Brock Lesnar in 2004 in a monumental upset. This victory was not just a personal triumph for Eddie; it was an inspiration to countless aspiring wrestlers who dreamed of achieving the same success. His legacy continues to inspire wrestlers and fans alike, and his contributions to the sport will never be forgotten. Eddie Guerrero paved the way for many Latino wrestlers in the industry.

The Immediate Aftermath of Eddie's Passing

The immediate aftermath of Eddie Guerrero's death was a period of profound grief and mourning. WWE dedicated an entire episode of Monday Night Raw and SmackDown to his memory, featuring tributes from fellow wrestlers, highlights of his career, and emotional interviews. These shows served as a cathartic release for the wrestling community and allowed fans to collectively grieve the loss of their beloved hero. Several wrestlers have shared how the loss of Eddie impacted them and changed their lives. Chris Benoit was hit hard by this loss, as he and Eddie were very close friends.

Potential Storylines and Rivalries for 2006

Okay, guys, let's get into the juicy stuff – what could have been! While it's impossible to say for sure what WWE had in store for Eddie Guerrero in 2006, we can piece together some potential storylines and rivalries based on the events leading up to his death and the landscape of WWE at the time. Here are some possibilities:

1. Eddie Guerrero vs. Batista

This is one of the most talked-about potential rivalries that never came to fruition. Leading up to Eddie's passing, he was involved in a storyline with Batista, who was the World Heavyweight Champion at the time. Eddie, ever the opportunist, had been trying to manipulate Batista and weasel his way into a title shot. The seeds were sown for a classic face-versus-heel rivalry, with Batista as the beloved champion and Eddie as the scheming challenger. Some reports suggest that Eddie was even scheduled to face Batista for the World Heavyweight Championship at Survivor Series in November 2005, just weeks after his death. Imagine the promos, the in-ring action, and the sheer drama that this feud could have produced! Eddie's ability to play mind games and get under his opponent's skin would have made for a compelling dynamic against Batista's raw power and intensity. This rivalry could have easily extended throughout 2006, with numerous twists and turns along the way. Who knows, maybe Eddie would have even captured the World Heavyweight Championship one more time!

2. Eddie Guerrero vs. Rey Mysterio

Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio's friendship-turned-rivalry was one of the most captivating storylines in WWE history. Their feud in 2005, which centered around the custody of Rey Mysterio's son, Dominick, was both controversial and highly entertaining. While they had seemingly resolved their differences by the end of the year, there was always the potential for this rivalry to be reignited. Eddie's unpredictable nature and his penchant for turning on his friends could have easily led to another chapter in this epic saga. Perhaps Eddie would have grown jealous of Rey's continued success and popularity, leading him to once again target his former friend. Or maybe a misunderstanding or a perceived betrayal would have sparked a new conflict between the two. Whatever the reason, a renewed rivalry between Eddie and Rey would have undoubtedly been a ratings draw and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The chemistry between these two performers was undeniable, and their matches were always filled with excitement and innovation.

3. Eddie Guerrero vs. Kurt Angle

Eddie Guerrero and Kurt Angle had a long and storied history together, dating back to their days in WWE's mid-card. They had faced each other on numerous occasions, both as allies and as rivals, and their matches were always highly competitive and technically sound. In 2006, Kurt Angle was transitioning into a more serious and intense character. A feud with Eddie Guerrero could have provided a perfect foil for Angle's newfound aggression and intensity. Eddie's ability to frustrate and outsmart his opponents would have tested Angle's patience and pushed him to his limits. This rivalry could have also explored the themes of respect and sportsmanship, with Eddie challenging Angle's perception of himself as the ultimate athlete. Imagine the promos between these two masters of the mic, with Angle's arrogant boasts clashing against Eddie's sly wit and humor. Their matches would have been a showcase of technical wrestling and strategic maneuvering, with both men trying to gain the upper hand through any means necessary.

4. Eddie Guerrero and Chavo Guerrero Tag Team Revival

Before Eddie Guerrero became a singles superstar, he was part of a highly successful tag team with his nephew, Chavo Guerrero, known as Los Guerreros. Their motto, "We Lie! We Cheat! We Steal!", became synonymous with their mischievous antics and their ability to outsmart their opponents. In 2006, a revival of Los Guerreros could have been a welcome addition to the tag team division. Eddie's charisma and in-ring skills, combined with Chavo's athleticism and energy, would have made them a formidable force. They could have challenged for the WWE Tag Team Championship and engaged in entertaining feuds with other teams, such as MNM, The Spirit Squad, or even a reformed version of The Dudley Boyz. A Los Guerreros revival would have also provided an opportunity to showcase Chavo's talents and elevate him to a higher level. While he may have always been in Eddie's shadow, a renewed partnership could have allowed him to shine and prove his worth as a valuable member of the WWE roster.

The Untold Stories and What Could Have Been

Beyond these specific storylines and rivalries, there are countless other possibilities that could have unfolded for Eddie Guerrero in 2006. Perhaps he would have pursued a career in acting or broadcasting, following in the footsteps of other wrestlers who have successfully transitioned into Hollywood. Or maybe he would have taken on a mentoring role, guiding and inspiring the next generation of wrestling talent. Whatever the case, one thing is certain: Eddie Guerrero's absence left a void in the wrestling world that can never be truly filled. His talent, his charisma, and his passion for the sport were unmatched, and his legacy will continue to inspire wrestlers and fans for generations to come. While we can only speculate about what might have been, it's important to remember and celebrate the incredible contributions that Eddie Guerrero made to the world of professional wrestling. He was, and always will be, a true legend.

Conclusion: Remembering Eddie

While we can only speculate about what might have been for Eddie Guerrero in 2006, it's clear that he was poised for even greater success. Whether he would have continued his rivalries with Batista and Rey Mysterio, embarked on new feuds with Kurt Angle or other top stars, or revived his tag team with Chavo, Eddie's talent and charisma would have undoubtedly shone through. More importantly, let’s remember Latino Heat for everything he gave to the wrestling world.