In a move that has sparked both intrigue and debate within the WWE universe, Bully Ray has suggested that Charlotte Flair, one of the most decorated female wrestlers in the company, should be kept out of the women’s title picture. This advice comes at a unique time, as Flair has been enjoying a surge in fan support, particularly after her return from injury and her recent team-ups with Alexa Bliss.
Understanding Bully Ray’s Stance
Bully Ray, a WWE Hall of Famer known for his candid opinions, recently shared his thoughts on Charlotte Flair’s current situation during an episode of “Busted Open Radio.” His comments highlight a broader strategy focused on maintaining fan enthusiasm and exploring new dynamics within WWE’s women’s division.
“I think you keep Charlotte Flair away from the singles championship for now. Keep her with Alexa Bliss. Keep her relatable and vulnerable,” Ray said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive relationship between Flair and her audience.
This approach is particularly relevant given the recent shift in fan perception toward Flair. After facing criticism for her frequent title reigns and her return win at the 2025 Royal Rumble, Flair has seen a dramatic turnaround in fan support, largely due to her teaming up with Alexa Bliss. This partnership has not only changed how fans perceive Flair but also revitalized her character by making her more likable and vulnerable.
Backstage Perspective on Flair’s Popularity
According to a WWE insider, “The key to Charlotte Flair’s recent success isn’t just about her in-ring performances but how she’s being booked. Pairing her with someone like Alexa Bliss, who has a strong connection with the audience, has been a masterstroke. It humanizes Charlotte and gives her a new layer of depth that the fans can relate to.”
This strategy aligns with Bully Ray’s suggestion, as it leverages the positive momentum of Flair’s current storyline to keep her in a fan-friendly position, at least for as long as the audience remains supportive.
The Role of Fan Support
Fan support is a critical factor in WWE’s decision-making process, and in recent months, Charlotte Flair has experienced a significant boost in popularity. After her return from injury, Flair was initially met with skepticism, especially following her win at the Royal Rumble. However, her budding partnership with Alexa Bliss has helped shift the narrative, making her a more endearing figure to the audience.
Bully Ray has been vocal about his appreciation for Flair’s skillset and has defended her against criticism, stating that she is better than any other woman in the WWE. This sentiment reflects a broader belief that Flair’s strengths should be utilized in a way that maximizes fan engagement.
The Future of Charlotte Flair
As the WWE approaches WrestleMania 41, the question of whether Charlotte Flair will be involved in a title match remains speculative. Given her options as a Royal Rumble winner, Flair could choose to face any women’s world champion of her choice. However, if Bully Ray’s advice is taken into consideration, it might mean that Flair stays away from solo title pursuits for the time being.
In an interview, Bully Ray noted, “This is the best thing maybe ever to happen to Charlotte in her career. We are now looking at Charlotte in a completely different light. She’s vulnerable. She’s becoming likable through her vulnerability. She’s paired up, she’s sharing the spotlight with a character and a woman that the universe loves.”
This statement underscores the idea that Flair’s current trajectory, focusing on her character development and fan connection rather than title reigns, could be the best strategy for both her and WWE.
Conclusion
In professional wrestling, the relationship between a wrestler and their audience is dynamic and can shift quickly. Bully Ray’s suggestion to keep Charlotte Flair out of the title picture, at least as long as she remains popular, highlights a strategic approach to maintaining fan interest and exploring new character dynamics. As the WWE navigates the complexities of its women’s division, Flair’s role will undoubtedly remain a focal point, with her future directions likely influenced by the currents of fan support.
