Ric Flair is kind of a big deal in the Charlotte area. The former WWE superstar locked the figure four on the city’s heart long ago, and since has become a rallying cry for professional sports around the state.
Inside Ric Flair’s betrayal of the Panthers
Good heel turn, Ric.
James Dator has been covering a wide range of sports for SB Nation for over a decade, with a special focus on the NFL.
Don't believe us? Check out how the Carolina Panthers have been celebrating all season long.
Then something happened. The Panthers never should have trusted “The Dirtiest Player in the Game.” Flair took a heel turn and flew to Green Bay to motivate the San Francisco 49ers before their playoff game.
This was a man who was the source of an online petition so he could be put back on the stadium Jumbotron. (via @billvoth)
HOW COULD YOU NAITCH?!
Naturally folks in the Carolinas were a touch upset with their prodigal wrestling son.
Initial reactions on Twitter were harsh. Some refused to believe in the betrayal.
How was Facebook faring?
The Panthers play the 49ers in the playoffs and suffice it to say, he's got a few fans to win over if he intends to watch the game at Bank of America Stadium.
49ers win! WOOOOO! Congrats SF! Obviously my pep talk worked! WOOOOO! #OldSchoolRaw
— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) January 6, 2014 Moreover, it appears the players are well aware of Ric’s turn -- and they’re none too pleased.
Started asking Drayton Florence about Ric Flair, he interrupted saying, "I’m not talking about that" and turned away. A team spurned?
— Bill Voth (@billvoth) January 6, 2014 
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