10 Awesome Ways Wrestlers Got Back At Critics
9. Peyton Royce Vs Dave Meltzer
Dave Meltzer's thoughtless 2018 remark regarding Peyton Royce's breast augmentation was misconstrued, but it was an inane observation to make and saw the Wrestling Observer doyen rightfully taken to task by the IIconics member.
Noting that she was "a lot lighter" in the developmental league, Meltzer's focus on size (regardless of what he was technically referring to) highlighted a archaic approach to his analysis. Similarly, Royce's righteous response was a reminder than wrestlers can bounce back criticisms should they wish - particularly if they don't hold the legendary journalist in as high regard as those that came before them.
Naturally, this led to a Twitter pile-on that perhaps wasn't as warranted, but Meltzer's failure to truly understand the gravity of his remarks ahead of an eventual apology furthered the pressure upon him. Royce highlighted just how hurtful the remarks could have potentially been in her Tweet, noting how the general attitude towards physical appearance (particularly regarding women) stood to cause greater damage than just her own hurt feelings.
Rebounding rapidly, she continued to improve on the main roster and remarkably captured doubles gold at WrestleMania with partner Billie Kay. Limited between the ropes, the pair talked their way to the titles without typically b*tchy takes on physical appearances.