So, imagine a world where WCW gets a lifeline and stays on Turner, ECW finds an investor with deep pockets and a better TV slot, and Triple H doesn't tear his quad. What does WWF look like in 2001, with no Invasion angle and no new talent from WCW and ECW?
Bonus points- what if Austin doesn't turn heel at WM17 but still wins the belt?
I think the latter would have been the best case scenario. Problem is that Austin himself was wanting to freshen up the character and I feel like he would have kept pushing for the heel turn. Really as long as they stay away from it, they keep making money, but once Austin turns it’s all over for the Attitude Era.