Aurelian Smith Jr., better known by the ring name Jake "The Snake" Roberts, is an American retired professional wrestler and actor currently signed to All Elite Wrestling (AEW) where he performs as manager to Lance Archer, and he also serves as a special advisor for AEW's community outreach program, AEW Together. He is also signed to WWE under a legends contract. He is best known for his two stints in the World Wrestling Federation ; the first between 1986 and 1992, and the second between 1996 and 1997. He wrestled in the National Wrestling Alliance in 1983, World Championship Wrestling in 1992, and the Mexico-based Asistencia Asesoría y Administración between 1993 and 1994 and again in 1997. He appeared in Extreme Championship Wrestling during the summer of 1997 and made appearances for Total Nonstop Action Wrestling from 2006 through 2008.
Roberts in 2017
Many of Roberts' storylines revolved around the use of his snake, Damien, seen here in the middle of the ring (March 7, 1989)
André the Giant feuded with Roberts based on André's fear of snakes (pictured March 7, 1989)
Roberts and Hunter Hearst Helmsley in 1996
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) is an American professional wrestling promotion. It is owned and operated by TKO Group Holdings, a majority-owned subsidiary of Endeavor Group Holdings. A global integrated media and entertainment company, WWE has also branched out into fields outside of wrestling, including film, football, and various other business ventures. The company is additionally involved in licensing its intellectual property to companies to produce video games and action figures.
Vincent J. McMahon with Verne Gagne and Bruno Sammartino in 1975
Hulk Hogan, pictured in 1989, was the WWF's top star during the 1980s professional wrestling boom.
Shawn Michaels became one of the biggest star in WWF during this time, since an iconic ladder match at WrestleMania X.
Stone Cold Steve Austin rivalry with Vince McMahon is often cited as having turned the tides for WWF in the Monday Night War against rival promotion WCW.