INTERVIEW: Extreme conversations with Paul Heyman

The sudden departure of Jerry 'The King' Lawler from the WWF left an empty seat at the commentary table for Raw is War. Fortunately, there's an extreme new voice on Monday nights... WWF.com spoke to ECW owner Paul Heyman to discuss his new role as colour commentator, his working relationship with Jim Ross and what he hopes to bring to the WWF.

WWF: Thank you for speaking to us today, Paul. How did you come to take up commentary duties on Raw is War?

HEYMAN: I got a phone call from Stamford, Connecticut. That can only mean good news or bad news... What I mean by that is - I've never had a courtesy call from the WWF. It had to be something big. I answered the phone and I heard the unmistakable voice of Vincent Kennedy McMahon. "Hey pal! I'm calling to ask you for a favour...". Oh boy, I thought. Here we go.

WWF: How did Mr. McMahon offer you the role?

HEYMAN: He just asked, straight up. There were no formalities, no fluffing it up or dancing around the subject. Say what you want about Vince McMahon, but he knows when to be direct. It's exactly that kind of rugged determination that has gotten him to the top of the mountain. I was hesitant to jump in front of the cameras again, but I couldn't let Vince down.

WWF: Why were you hesitant to go on-screen?

HEYMAN: I'd just gotten done with those kind of duties in ECW. I wanted time to step away from the public eye, to stay behind the curtain. But Vince is both persistent and persuasive, so... here we are.

WWF: How did you find your first night commentating on Raw is War?

HEYMAN: Having a front row seat to all of the action is thrilling. Having to get out of the way when Crash Holly came... well, crashing through our table? Not so much. But it was great to be surrounded by a live crowd, to feel that excitement rumbling throughout the arena.

WWF: What was it like to work alongside Jim Ross?

HEYMAN: It's always great to see J.R., even if he can't stand me. We're chalk and cheese, but I think that gives the viewers at home a lot of entertainment. I love grinding his gears, so I'm excited to do that on a weekly basis. He loves me really, I'm sure.

WWF: Are there any WWF Superstars in particular who you are looking forward to seeing in action?

HEYMAN: I think Kurt Angle is a phenomenal competitor. He's definitely found that intensity he's always talking about and I think that edge will only continue to grow within him. I'd love to see Angle unleashed - now that would be something special. Of course, I love seeing ECW talent performing on the big stage. The Dudleys, Raven, Tazz... I'm looking forward to seeing what they do next. Raven is a double champion - how crazy is that?

WWF: Are you excited to commentate WrestleMania X-Seven in Houston?

HEYMAN: I cannot wait to get to the Astrodome! For my first pay-per-view event on the job, WrestleMania X-Seven is shaping up to be the biggest one yet. I don't often get goosebumps, but the thought of calling Rock vs. Austin for the WWF Championship is giving me chills. I'm looking forward to seeing what matches are finalised for the big night over the coming weeks - and I'm excited to call the action along the way!