• WWE Legend & Top NXT Star Expected To Be Shifted To SmackDown
WWE SmackDown might be getting a fresh look soon, as officials are currently discussing updates to how the show is presented, according to WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select.
While the logo, the theme song, and the stage design are expected to stay the same, fans should look for changes in who appears on the broadcast.
The biggest part of this refresh involves moving some talent around. A few notable names are already being discussed for the move:
Rey Mysterio: The legendary high-flyer could be headed back to the blue brand to add some veteran star power.
Jacy Jayne: The former NXT Women’s Champion is being considered for a main roster call-up on the blue brand.
By mixing in new faces and familiar legends, WWE hopes to give SmackDown a new energy after WrestleMania 42, without completely changing the brand’s identity.
• Real Reason WWE Canceled Rumored Backlash Match
Pat McAfee has officially pulled the plug on his storyline with Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes, forcing WWE to cancel a match planned for next month.
According to the Wrestling Observer, McAfee chose to opt out of the angle entirely. This decision means the big tag team match that was supposed to happen at Backlash on May 9, featuring McAfee and Orton vs. Cody Rhodes and Jelly Roll, has been completely scrapped.
It turns out that both McAfee and Jelly Roll have been paying close attention to what people are saying online. Many fans have been vocal about not wanting celebrities taking up main-event spots in the ring.
Both men are huge wrestling fans themselves. They reportedly didn’t want to be the reason for any negative vibes or criticism toward the product they love.
It was McAfee’s decision to walk away, largely because he didn’t want the fans’ frustration with celebrity wrestlers to ruin the stories involving full-time stars like Cody and Randy.
Because McAfee stepped back, WWE decided to drop the entire storyline rather than try to force it to work without him. McAfee is now retired from wrestling because Orton lost at WrestleMania 42.
