The February 24 episode of WWE RAW had an unexpected moment when Jey Uso won the Elimination Chamber qualifier. But instead of celebrating, it was his reaction after the win that got people talking.
The qualifying match featured Jey Uso, Bronson Reed, and The Original El Grande Americano. Reports say Reed was originally supposed to win. However, things changed during the match when Reed suffered a distal bicep tear and couldn’t continue. Because of the injury, WWE had to change the finish and had Uso win instead.
Injuries happen in wrestling, but fans noticed that Uso didn’t look very happy after securing victory. That caught the attention of WWE Hall of Famer Bully Ray.
Bully Ray Questions Jey Uso’s Post-Match Reaction on RAW
Speaking on Busted Open Radio, Ray questioned why Uso looked upset after earning such a big opportunity. He said that no matter what happens behind the scenes, a wrestler should stay in character.
“Why did Jey Uso look depressed and sad? I’m sorry but you’re supposed to try to win the match because you’re trying to get into the Elimination Chamber. This is where the art of working comes in. Anything can happen at any given moment. It is your job to stay in the moment. You won the match, Jey Uso should have been going crazy because he got another opportunity,” Ray said.
“I understand you’re concerned, you’re worried about the guy that got hurt. That doesn’t mean you completely come out of the moment. You are basically telling me that you weren’t supposed to win. You cannot do that,” Ray added.
Bully Ray then talks about a difference in mindset between generations. In the past, kayfabe was extremely important. Today, fans are much more aware of what happens behind the scenes.
“But I guess in this new age of wrestling it’s okay to show concern for your fellow wrestler, even though you won the match,” he said.
Ray also added that it’s normal to care about an injured coworker. However, those emotions should come into play backstage, not on camera.
“Stay in the moment. When you get to the back, you can show concern. So right off the bat, that took me out. Yes, I understand somebody gets hurt, people get hurt in the ring all the time. S**t happens. It’s not ballet,” Ray said.
As for Bronson Reed, the injury is serious. A distal bicep tear usually requires surgery and months of recovery time, which could keep him out for a while.
Read More: WWE Confirms Bronson Reed Injury on RAW, How Long He’ll Be Out
