As noted, back in 2002 that WWE was looking for someone to be a tough guy that was also gay. WWE had Brock Lesnar planned for that spot.
The idea was for Lesnar to be portrayed as a kick ass main eventer when he made his debut that year.
Former WWE creative member Seth Mates spoke out on the situation via Twitter:
https://twitter.com/SethMates/status/626859740648337408
https://twitter.com/SethMates/status/626859896936497152
