During a recent episode of his “Poddin’ Ain’t Easy” podcast, WWE Hall of Famer The Godfather revealed never-before-heard details about a tense backstage incident involving controversial former WWE superstar Ahmed Johnson and legendary commentator Jim Ross. According to The Godfather, he was personally asked to mediate a serious confrontation between the two, a role he accepted given his reputation as one of the toughest wrestlers backstage and his close relationship with both parties[2].

Ahmed Johnson, known as the first African American Intercontinental Champion, had a tumultuous WWE career defined by high expectations but marred by backstage conflicts and personal struggles. The Godfather described Johnson candidly as someone who “didn’t get it” during his WWE tenure—meaning he resisted the company’s culture and failed to take advice, notably from respected figures like Ron Simmons[2]. He said, “Back then, didn’t get it, didn’t want to play the game… Thought he knew it all,” but added that Johnson has “seemed to be a lot more humble these days,” reflecting a significant personal growth since leaving WWE[2].

The backstage showdown The Godfather spoke about arose from rumors that Ahmed Johnson might physically confront Jim Ross following disagreements regarding Johnson’s career and behavior. The Godfather explained it was WWE Hall of Famer Gerald Brisco who specifically requested his involvement to ensure the situation did not escalate[2]. In his account, The Godfather emphasized loyalties, saying he “had JR’s back,” aware of Johnson’s considerable physical strength, which made the mediation delicate. The Godfather’s presence alone was enough to prevent any real violence, underscoring his respected status in the locker room[1][2].

Jim Ross, throughout his career, has spoken about his difficult interactions with Ahmed Johnson. On the podcast “Grilling JR,” Ross shared insights into Johnson’s paranoia and insecurities, acknowledging that Johnson often felt everyone was against him in WWE[5]. Ross also described some of Johnson’s backstage outbursts and challenging behavior, which contributed to the strained relationship between him and several wrestlers or officials.

Johnson’s backstage reputation extended beyond Jim Ross. He reportedly had frictions with members of the Nation of Domination faction, including Farooq and The Rock. According to Bruce Prichard and other insiders, tension between Johnson and The Rock reached a point where The Rock challenged him to a fight, though no physical altercation ensued and they later worked professionally together[1][4]. Farooq, the Nation’s leader, also did not get along well with Johnson, partly due to Johnson’s perceived rough in-ring style that occasionally caused injuries to peers[3].

The Godfather, however, maintained that he personally did not have issues with Johnson and viewed him somewhat sympathetically compared to others. He credited Johnson’s downfall primarily to his unwillingness to adapt to WWE’s backstage demands and culture, rather than personal animosity[2]. This perspective aligns with multiple accounts of Johnson’s career—a promising athlete who suffered from attitude problems and physical health issues, including kidney troubles that contributed to his early departure from WWE[3].

Several infamous backstage anecdotes surround Ahmed Johnson’s WWE tenure, including a heated moment when Goldust kissed him during a segment rehearsal, provoking an angry outburst from Johnson upon regaining his senses[1]. Stories like this, and his clashes with other wrestlers, painted a picture of a volatile but talented performer who struggled with the pressures of WWE’s environment.

Sources close to The Godfather revealed he and Gerald Brisco even discussed the incident in recent times, reflecting on the backstage chaos and how such moments have shaped WWE’s locker room dynamics during the 1990s[2]. Fightful and WWE.com have also chronicled the challenges Johnson faced, noting that while he had star potential, his inability to fully integrate into WWE’s system harmed his career longevity.

In summary, the mediation story highlights the complex backstage world of WWE where physicality, egos, and diplomacy often collide. The Godfather’s role as a mediator between Ahmed Johnson and Jim Ross underscores the respect he commanded behind the scenes and the volatility Johnson represented at his peak. As Johnson has matured outside WWE, former colleagues like The Godfather acknowledge a changed man, offering a nuanced view of a once-troubled talent[2].

Sources: “Ask Godfather Anything” episode on ‘Poddin’ Ain’t Easy’ podcast, WrestlingNews.co, TheSportster.com, Fightful, interviews with Jim Ross (Grilling JR podcast), WWE.com