WWE legend Brian James, better known as Road Dogg, has recently made some candid comments about his former employer’s handling of certain wrestlers. According to James, WWE has dropped the ball on several specific superstars, failing to capitalize on their potential and leaving them without the opportunities they deserved. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into James’ remarks and explore which wrestlers he believes got the short end of the stick. Hang on tight, because we’re about to hit the high notes and break down the truth behind Road Dogg’s behind-the-scenes insights.
Brian “Road Dogg” James is the WWE Senior Vice President of Live Events and has opened up about some potential missteps regarding former WWE superstars. James recently appeared on the “Oh You Didn’t Know” podcast and discussed WrestleMania 34, where he admitted that WWE could have done better with at least two former superstars, Aiden English and Rusev.
James had nothing but positive things to say about English, stating that he was a great guy with an excellent body, in-ring skills, and a great voice. However, James admitted that he missed the ball with him. English opened WrestleMania 34 as a participant in the Andre the Giant Battle Royal, which was met with fan displeasure when he was eliminated.
Following his elimination, English shaved his head and appeared alongside Rusev in a Fatal Four-Way match for the United States Championship against Randy Orton, Bobby Roode, and Jinder Mahal. English became a staple of Rusev’s act, including belting out the catchphrase “Rusev Day” on several occasions.
When asked if Roode or Rusev was the bigger ball-drop for WWE, James said that Rusev was the bigger disappointment, even though he praised Roode as a great in-ring performer who wasn’t being utilized enough. James did admit that they had set up Rusev Day creatively and could have done more with it, ultimately dropping the ball with regards to their presentation of Rusev.
James’s assessment of Rusev and English isn’t without merit. Rusev and English were both extremely popular with fans a few years ago, and Rusev Day became a phenomenon, spawning merchandise and chants at live events. However, instead of capitalizing on the momentum that Rusev and English had created, WWE quickly moved on, booking Rusev in a series of forgettable programs while English was relegated to lower-card status.
This isn’t the first time that WWE has failed to properly capitalize on a performer’s popularity. In recent years, we’ve seen performers like Zack Ryder, Cesaro, and Dolph Ziggler all rise to prominence only to be quickly forgotten by WWE. While this is undoubtedly frustrating for fans, it’s also an inevitable part of the pro wrestling business.
It’s worth noting that James’s comments regarding Rusev and English were made in the context of a podcast appearance, and he was likely being candid rather than criticizing his employer. Nonetheless, it’s clear that a missed opportunity is something that can haunt performers and fans alike for years to come.
In conclusion, Road Dogg’s admission that WWE dropped the ball on several specific superstars is both eye-opening and a bit disappointing. While it is clear that the world of professional wrestling is both ever-evolving and highly unpredictable, it is disheartening to think that some talented wrestlers may have missed out on opportunities due to factors beyond their control. However, as fans and followers of the WWE, it is important that we continue to support and appreciate all of the hard-working and dedicated individuals who make this industry the exciting and entertaining spectacle it is today.
