The highly anticipated WWE Survivor Series: WarGames main event was a masterclass in chaos and unpredictability, but it almost looked very different. Austin Theory, one of the most promising young talents in the WWE, was initially slotted to be part of the men’s WarGames match – but a last-minute backstage reshuffle saw him replaced, leaving fans wondering what could have been.
The Original Plan
According to sources close to the WWE’s creative team, Theory was indeed supposed to be part of the men’s WarGames match. The idea was for Theory to team up with The Miz, Dominik Mysterio, and Damian Priest, with Cody Rhodes, Drew McIntyre, and the Usos’ Jimmy Uso forming the opposition. The plan was to put Theory in a high-profile spot, capitalizing on his momentum from the previous months.
“This was a big opportunity for Austin Theory to step up and prove himself on a massive stage,” a WWE insider revealed. “The creative team genuinely believed he was ready for this kind of exposure, and they wanted to see him in a WarGames match. It was a bold move, but it would’ve been a great way to further establish him as a top-tier talent.”
The Backstage Shakeup
However, things changed at the last minute. With the Survivor Series: WarGames card already set in stone, the WWE’s creative team made a sudden decision to swap Theory out for Karrion Kross, pairing him with The Miz, Dominik Mysterio, and Damian Priest.
“Kross was brought in to add a level of unpredictability to the match,” a source close to the situation explained. “The creative team felt that Theory, while talented, didn’t quite have the same level of intensity and aggression that they were looking for. Kross, on the other hand, has a reputation for being a wild card, and they thought he would bring a much-needed spark to the match.”
The Impact on Theory’s Career
The decision to replace Theory with Kross has left many wondering what this means for Theory’s career trajectory. While it’s clear that Theory is still a valuable asset to the WWE, this move has sparked concerns that he may be being passed over for more veteran talent.
“Austin Theory is still a relatively new talent, and he’s got a lot to prove,” a WWE insider noted. “While this decision might seem like a setback, it’s not necessarily a reflection on his abilities. It’s just a sign that the WWE is still figuring out how to best utilize him.”
The Future of WarGames
The 2022 Survivor Series: WarGames was a huge success, with many praising the new format and the way it allowed for a more unpredictable and chaotic match. With the men’s WarGames match already set for next year’s event, fans are left wondering what changes will be made – and whether Theory will be given another chance to shine.
“WarGames is a format that lends itself to creativity and experimentation,” a WWE insider said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if we see even more unexpected twists and turns in the future. The WWE has a history of pushing the boundaries, and I think we’ll see even more innovative matches in the years to come.”
Conclusion
While the men’s WarGames match might have looked different with Austin Theory as part of the team, it’s clear that the WWE is still committed to showcasing his talents. Whether he’ll get another chance to shine in a high-profile match remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure – the world of professional wrestling is always full of surprises, and the WWE is never afraid to take risks.
As the WWE continues to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of professional wrestling, one thing’s certain: the future is bright – and exciting – for fans of the WWE.