Latest news with #OffTheTop
Time of India
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
WWE Hall of Famer slams TKO over Roman Reigns, Jey Uso treatment
Image via WWE W WE legend Rikishi has launched a scathing attack on the company's creative direction, accusing them of disrespecting his family's legacy - especially Roman Reigns and Jey Uso. The outspoken Hall of Famer voiced his frustrations on his Off The Top podcast, addressing recent decisions that he believes undermine the contributions of The Bloodline. From rumors of a pay cut for Reigns to Jey Uso's short-lived title reign, Rikishi believes WWE is making a 'big mistake' in how it's treating members of the Anoa'i dynasty - a family widely regarded as the greatest in pro wrestling history. Rikishi defends The Bloodline's legacy Rikishi's outrage was sparked by rumors suggesting WWE and its parent company, TKO, are considering reducing Roman Reigns' salary during his current break from TV. For Rikishi, such talk is deeply disrespectful, considering the impact Reigns has had on WWE's success in recent years. Standing On Business!- Rikishi Fatu - Off The Top - Episode 63 'Do the math - WrestleMania, Raw, SmackDown - who's on those posters? Roman Reigns. Jey Uso. Trinity Fatu. That's the Bloodline,' Rikishi said. 'You want to move on, fine. But don't erase our history. We've given our soul to this business.' He added, 'We've never been the problem, we've always been the source. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Memperdagangkan CFD Emas dengan salah satu spread terendah? IC Markets Mendaftar Undo Past, present, future - we are this industry. Give us our flowers. We're taking it either way.' Short title reign fuels frustration The controversy escalated after Jey Uso lost his WWE World Heavyweight Championship to Gunther on the June 9 episode of RAW, just 51 days after winning it at WrestleMania 41. Fans were upset, and so was Rikishi. AND NEW! | Gunther dethrones Jey Uso for World Heavyweight Title: Raw highlights, June 9, 2025 He criticized WWE's writers for failing to support Jey's title run, saying they should be 'fired' for not being able to build around a rising champion. 'Would you have done this to John Cena or Randy Orton?' Rikishi asked. 'You give the title, and then give them nothing to work with? That's not fair.' Rikishi also pointed to past instances, like Jey's short Intercontinental Title reign - to show a pattern of what he calls missed opportunities for his son. He believes Jey's rise was earned through hard work, fan support, and years of dedication. With WWE seemingly moving in a new direction, questions loom over the future of The Bloodline. Fans and family alike are watching closely. Rikishi's fiery comments have ignited public debate, and it remains to be seen whether WWE will course-correct - or keep sidelining one of its most iconic families. Also Read: Ron Killings vs. John Cena heats up again - What's next for this WWE rivalry?
Time of India
31-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Rikishi voices frustration over Jey Uso's WWE direction, calls for booking overhaul
Image via WWE WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi has voiced strong concerns over the creative direction surrounding his son Jey Uso, who is currently enjoying his first reign as World Heavyweight Champion. While Jey remains a prominent figure in the promotion, Rikishi believes WWE's decision to book him in a tag team match at Money in the Bank (MITB) 2025 undermines his stature as a singles champion. Speaking on his Off The Top podcast, Rikishi criticised WWE's creative team for what he called 'confusing booking' and even joked that he should be allowed to book Jey's matches instead. 'Bro why? Why? I mean, Jey is a World Heavyweight Champion by himself… just book me so I can book my son's matches out there,' he quipped. Rikishi shows concern over storyline momentum Jey Uso is set to team up with Cody Rhodes to face Logan Paul and John Cena at MITB on June 7. While the lineup looks star-studded on paper, Rikishi questioned the decision to place a reigning world champion in a non-title tag match instead of spotlighting him in a marquee singles bout. 'You beat Logan Paul the first time they lock up? I wouldn't have done that. Should've waited for a gimmick match,' Rikishi added, pointing out that Paul's star power could've been better utilized. YADADAMEAN?! Rikishi Fatu - Off The Top (Episode 61) He also took aim at the upcoming World Title match scheduled for June 9 on RAW, where GUNTHER will challenge Jey Uso. According to Rikishi, the match should've happened much sooner and with added stakes, possibly a stipulation that matches their in-ring reputations. While Rikishi may not be pleased with Jey's creative arc, he was full of praise for two other members of the Samoan dynasty - Jacob Fatu and JC Mateo (formerly Jeff Cobb). Rikishi labeled Fatu a 'future Hall of Famer' and lauded his rise from personal struggles to becoming one of WWE's hottest new stars. He also applauded Mateo's quick impact since debuting at WWE Backlash and likened his physical presence to that of a prime Taz, highlighting his suplex-heavy style and agility despite his build. 'To see him get that financial stability after grinding on the indies - man, I'm proud,' Rikishi said. Fans online appear to agree with Rikishi's sentiment. Many have questioned the lack of title defenses for Jey and criticized WWE for relying too heavily on tag matches featuring champions at Premium Live Events.
