Jeff Cobb Is Now Called JC Mateo - Wins Debut Match On SmackDown (WWE News)
WWE renamed surprise signing Jeff Cobb on this week's episode of SmackDown.
WWE has decided to rename Jeff Cobb after initially debuting him under that moniker during last weekend's Backlash PLE. There, Cobb helped Jacob Fatu retain the United States Title in a four-way vs. LA Knight, Damian Priest and Drew McIntyre, but there seemed to be tension between both men - Cobb was seemingly really there at the behest of one Solo Sikoa.
Come the follow up episode of SmackDown, Jeff Cobb was no more. No, Fatu didn't crush him as part of some bizarre 'one and done' story. Instead, Solo referred to Cobb as "JC Mateo". WWE's commentary team also called him that for the rest of the night, and Cobb became Mateo for the company's YouTube/social media output too.
So long for now, Jeff Cobb. Say hello to JC Mateo.
This will be an interesting run for JC. He'd originally announced plans to retire from the ring shortly after leaving New Japan and before signing on the dotted line with WWE, but then showed up in St. Louis at Backlash. That caught everyone off guard. The 42 year old is surely looking at this surprise stint as a chance to tick off some bucket list goals and have some fun in the twilight of his in-ring career.
There's nothing wrong with that. Mateo gets to experience a proper stab at WWE life, and Triple H can be assured of some cool matches out of it.
JC Mateo Beat LA Knight During Debut WWE Match
'The Game' made sure to give his new signing a hot start on the blue brand.
JC Mateo defeated none other than LA Knight during his debut match on WWE TV. It was back and forth, as many would expect, but then Mateo scored the win with his scoop power slam finisher. Announcer Joe Tessitore called that the "Tour Of Violence", but it's unclear whether or not that name will stick.
Some fans have already been critical of the name change and the finisher. However, JC is a thick, believably powerful dude, and his finish definitely has a satisfying whip to it. The fact he was able to move someone the size of Knight around like he did is impressive for starters.
It remains to be seen exactly what kind of push Mateo will receive longer term, but he'll be happy with the start he's made on WWE TV. Simmering tensions between he and Jacob suggest a United States Title shot isn't out of the question on one of WWE's many TV and PLE specials on the horizon.