10 Positive Developments In This AWFUL Post-WWE WrestleMania 35 Season
Bargaining.
Negativity is regulation Content in the immediate post-WrestleMania season, because the post-WrestleMania season is sh*t.
But don't take our word for it. Take the word of an anonymous WWE Superstar, who, per Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio this week, actively attempted to fail a drug test in a cunning/hilarious attempt to get fired. The gambit didn't work; WWE is wise to the tactic, and would rather its performers risk a potential medical issue than depart for AEW, Christ alive.
For the sake of privacy, let's call this anonymous Superstar Luke H. No, that's too obvious. Let's say L. Harper.
What compelled him to take this drastic, actually quite dangerous measure? Ingesting the substances forbidden by the Wellness Policy is, you'd expect, rather dangerous. That is why they are banned. Is the definitive chaos, spiteful contract tinkering, and laughable lack of creative direction that bad? Vince McMahon literally turned around to the Revival and said "You wanna shave months off your deal, huh? We'll, I'll shave your godd*mn back!"
So yes. Yes it is.
N.B. We don't really know who it was. That was just a joke from a show most would wish to re-watch for the millionth time instead of original 2019 WWE May content, the highlights of which are few, far between, and probably exaggerated here for sanity's sake...
10. AJ Styles Vs. Seth Rollins
The dialogue, throughout the contract signing angle between AJ Styles and Seth Rollins on Monday's RAW, was as derivative as the trope itself: all the talk of Rollins becoming the next AJ, and of Rollins wishing to create a legacy all of his own, felt at once close to and distant from their real inspirations in Shawn Michaels and Chris Jericho. The lack of real gravitas and charismatic showmanship that enhanced their two legendary programmes was palpable.
The inevitable eruption of physicality did show much promise - as did the subtle heel nuances AJ conveyed throughout. Both foreshadowing a heel turn and building towards it with a new, more obnoxious disposition, AJ's performance wasn't outstanding, but it did hint at a much-needed character shift. AJ is a genius in-ring performer, but isn't a particularly engaging TV star in the babyface role. AJ, and his word choice was astute and telling, is reverting to the pitbull Vince fell for.
Seth Rollins Vs. AJ Styles is a long-held dream match, but how that manifests under WWE's regulation approach is cause for some cynicism - as is the timing of said turn, which is almost certain to drive an inconclusive finish at Money In The Bank.
But, focusing on the brief, AJ and Seth are likely relishing the opportunity to work with one another, which, optimistically, should set ablaze a fire match even in spite of the cold booking.