The world of professional wrestling often surprises us with unexpected twists and turns, and the recent storyline involving The New Day's heel turn is a prime example. In a recent interview, WWE superstar Big E shared his thoughts on the creative process behind this intriguing development.
The Heel Turn and Its Aftermath
On December 2, 2024, WWE Raw witnessed a shocking moment when Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods turned heel, leaving their longtime partner Big E behind. While the initial turn was well-received, the subsequent follow-up left much to be desired, according to Big E. He revealed a pitch he believed could have added an extra layer of intrigue to the storyline.
Big E's Vision
Big E proposed a scenario where Kofi Kingston would perform a save, ending up on the barricade. The twist? A fan with a low-brimmed hat, a subtle nod to the online criticism directed at Big E's fiancée at the time. The idea was to have The New Day members tilt their heads, remove their hats, and then, in a swift move, cost Kingston the Rumble match. This moment, in Big E's vision, would have been a powerful statement and a memorable chapter in their saga.
Creative's Response
Although the creative team didn't outright reject Big E's idea, it was ultimately shelved. Big E explained, "I was told, 'Hey, that's something we can get to later.'" However, he emphasized the importance of capitalizing on great ideas in the moment, especially in the fast-paced world of WWE creative direction.
The Impact of Creative Decisions
The decision to postpone Big E's pitch had consequences. As he noted, "Things with creative and direction move so much." The momentum of the storyline was lost, and the follow-up to the heel turn didn't live up to expectations. Big E expressed his disappointment, saying, "The follow-up of that turn didn't go the way we wanted." Despite this, he acknowledged the pride they felt in the initial heel turn.
A New Chapter: Broadcasting
Big E's journey took an unexpected turn in March 2022 when he suffered a career-ending neck injury. However, he has found a new role within WWE as a broadcaster for the PLEs. He seems content with this new path, stating that returning to the ring is "not a gamble worth taking." This shift in perspective showcases the resilience and adaptability of WWE superstars.
Deeper Analysis
The creative process behind WWE storylines is a fascinating glimpse into the world of professional wrestling. It highlights the delicate balance between capitalizing on great ideas and the ever-shifting nature of creative direction. Big E's pitch, though not utilized, adds an intriguing "what if" element to the New Day's heel turn. It also raises questions about the impact of online criticism and how it can influence creative decisions.
Conclusion
The New Day's heel turn and the subsequent creative choices showcase the intricate nature of storytelling in WWE. While some ideas may not come to fruition, they leave a lasting impact and spark intriguing discussions among fans and analysts alike. As for Big E, his transition to broadcasting showcases the diverse opportunities within the WWE universe, proving that there's more to this world than what happens in the ring.
