The Answer To WWE’s Problems Is Staring Them In The Face

Kevin Owens’ recent apology undid the initial Steve Austin comparisons, but he has flourished as a babyface character, a role he has fleshed out with his own, distinct personality. Fans were able to connect with him because he wasn’t the browbeaten, toothless heel that was beyond directionless last year (or this year, worryingly). The time spent away allowed fans to miss him and to take him seriously as a threat once more. He apologised meekly to Shane McMahon. This was bullsh*t—WWE still has serious fundamental issues booking babyface characters— but Owens has also benefitted from a long absence that lifted the stigma around him.

Even the much-maligned Baron Corbin has benefitted as a result of his short absence and gradual reintroduction to storylines. The period away from the machine has allowed creative to focus on rethinking his presentation, and now, he looks exponentially more credible than he did wearing that goofy vest. On Monday’s RAW, he brutalised Cedric Alexander in his most impressive performance in an age. After repeatedly pasting Cedric’s skull into the ring post, his face etched itself into that trademark smug grin. For once, this generated a reaction beyond apathy. The new presentation of the Corbin character—and the attempt to legitimise him with offence as despicable as the cheap heat that once defined him—warranted it.

Sasha Banks recently returned and turned heel on Becky Lynch, the company’s top babyface, in a disturbing beatdown—for which she was cheered. Bayley was also cheered for viciously turning on the company’s top babyface on this week’s RAW. The ‘Universe’ is sending a message to WWE.

And quietly, it appears as if WWE is answering it.

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