A repaint that should have been...

Looking back at the first few Jakks Pacific WWF exclusives, it makes me wonder why one particular 2-pack consisted of two re-releases instead of brand new repaints.

(Credit: Back To The Past Collectibles)

The 1 of 10,000 Shawn Michaels vs. Vader Grudge Match 2-pack features re-releases of their Superstars Series 2 figures, but it seems odd that this exclusive would not offer EXCLUSIVE figures, such as the Razor/Diesel and Bret/Owen sets.

Jakks could have easily re-released Superstars Series 1 Razor and Diesel and Series 2 Bret and Owen for those sets, but didn't and chose to produce one-of-a-kind repaints of all four.

However, the easy route was apparently taken with Shawn and Vader's figures, which could have been the perfect opportunity to capture their respective looks from SummerSlam 1996 in action figure form. The heated feud between the two culminated at the event, which saw HBK retain his WWF Championship.

Vader's repaint would not have consisted of much but a lighter shade of red (as was done later with his Live Wire Series 1 figure) for his mask, singlet and boots, and a darker shade of black for the rest of his attire.

Shawn's figure would have been the first and only of his BCAs to adorn black tights with white and black hearts. The wrist bands likely would not have been as detailed as the real ones worn. The WMXIV Singles Series (same as the box set) HBK BCA figure is about as close to this attire as was ever made, although the heart designs, outline and color of the tights is different.

In my opinion, it would have been a much more appealing exclusive with the attire pictured and described above.

I only wish Jakks had entertained the thought before deciding to re-release figures and label them as "exclusives."

Until next time, thanks for looking and have a nice day!

- Alex