On a recent edition of Talk is Jericho podcast with Chris Jericho, the former WWE champion expressed his thoughts on the current problem. Jericho highlights the current Universal championship matchup at Stomping Grounds between Seth Rollins and Baron Corbin among them.
“This match, to me, once again is one of the problems with WWE and maybe one of the reasons why tickets haven’t sold well in Tacoma. We just saw this match two weeks ago at Super (Showdown). The classic thing is my neighbor is a good guy too, (it) doesn’t mean (they) should be headlining pay-per-views over and over again.”
In saying that, Jericho wasn’t dismissing Corbin’s ability or skillset. He simply questioned whether or not Corbin was actually the best choice for this matchup considering the match was already a focal point on the recent Saudi Arabian show. Jericho puts it in perspective when others who have thrived in that role, been a world champion before and are on the same card. In particular, the current United States champion. He acknowledges Corbin’s current heat, the problem is it isn’t the heat it should be.
“There’s heat, there’s go-away heat, there’s this guy isn’t ready heat. Corbin is a solid worker, solid personality, great guy. I don’t think he’s ready for the main event especially when you got Samoa Joe four or five matches down working for the United States Championship. Flip-flop it. Let Corbin work his way up through the ranks and let a guy who is a legit proven headliner who has drawn money. I know you’re not suppose to say TNA in WWE but let’s be honest, the biggest pay-per-view in TNA history was Kurt Angle vs. Samoa Joe. Joe can walk the walk and talk the talk. I think Corbin is still learning. I think the difference in this one is that there’s a special guest referee that’s going to be chosen by Corbin”.
Madison’s Mindset: Jericho’s honesty comes from a place of experience. He knows what resonates with fans and clearly what isn’t. The decision to have this match among the focal points of the Stomping Grounds card does say a great deal as to whether or not this event will be successful. When considering the match features Baron Corbin with less of the focus being on Seth Rollins and Jericho addresses that. Rollins has delivered regardless of his role and shown to be successful at both and a draw. As reported in the past, Stomping Grounds has suffered from poor ticket sales leaving attendance for the event appearing a little scarce.
The inclusion of Samoa Joe in the argument should not be understated either. Joe time and time again has put his money where his mouth is and during their time together. Joe and now Hall of Famer Kurt Angle put on some of the greatest matches in TNA / IMPACT Wrestling history.
