Pat McAfee’s decision to align himself with Randy Orton against Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 42 has become a talking point. Mark Kaboly, a contributor to WWE.com and the Pat McAfee Show, has offered his perspective on the situation. Kaboly believes this move will ultimately benefit wrestling.
Kaboly’s Defence of McAfee’s Actions
Kaboly addresses the reactions to McAfee’s statements. He suggests that McAfee voiced concerns already held by fans. McAfee’s comment about Cody Rhodes, specifically that he “represents everything that we hate,” reflects sentiments already circulating among some viewers.
Kaboly argues that McAfee is acting on his concerns as a lifelong fan. Instead of simply complaining, McAfee is attempting to improve WWE. This, according to Kaboly, is what is frustrating some people.
Jealousy as a Motivator for Criticism
Kaboly suggests that jealousy plays a role in the negative reactions to McAfee. He believes some fans are upset that someone outside the traditional wrestling world is delivering this message. These fans, Kaboly posits, wanted someone with a wrestling legacy to be the one to speak out, not a “part-timer”.
Kaboly highlights McAfee’s success outside of wrestling. He notes that McAfee is a successful businessman who is widely liked, except, perhaps, within the wrestling community. Kaboly urges fans not to be jealous of McAfee’s efforts to improve wrestling.
The Goal: To Spark Change in WWE
Kaboly explains McAfee’s motivation: to address a problem within WWE. McAfee noticed that Randy Orton, a 14-time Champion, was being underutilized. McAfee wanted to get people talking about this issue.
Kaboly states that McAfee’s mission has been accomplished. The controversy has generated buzz and discussion. Kaboly points out the impact of McAfee’s promo, noting the significant feedback it created simply by stating the obvious.
According to Kaboly, McAfee’s involvement aims to fix a problem by acknowledging it. The hope is to get people interested and create change within the business.