A new report has shed light on the backstage reaction to Big Show leaving WWE and signing with AEW from members of both companies.
To the surprise of many, Paul Wight (fka Big Show) was recently announced as the latest AEW signee. Many thought Wight would be with WWE for life, so it was shocking to see him announced as a commentator for AEW Dark: Elevation.
According to recent reports, WWE talent felt a similar way. It was reported on Fightful Select that a lot of talent and people backstage had no idea of Wight’s move.
While it was noted that there was no apparent “chorus of ‘goodbyes'”, some people higher up in WWE reportedly revealed that they knew Wight wouldn’t be with WWE in any capacity by the end of the month.
Similarly, the AEW locker room was seemingly just as surprised to learn of Wight’s arrival. The reaction is generally positive, with many AEW stars willing to learn from the veteran.
It was mentioned that although AEW sources claimed they knew nothing of Wight’s signing, some talent is more in the know than others. With AEW’s acquisition of Sting in December, most knew nothing of Sting’s AEW plans until they watched it unfold live.
Talent closer to Tony Khan like Kenny Omega, The Young Bucks and the other Vice Presidents were directly involved in signing Sting, so had to keep his debut a secret.
Fightful’s report noted that a source close to Wight had revealed that recent “major life events” had influenced his decision to sign with AEW.
Wight will commentate on the new weekly show, AEW Dark: Elevation starting March 15, as well as getting back in the ring.
What are your thoughts on the above story? Let us know in the comments on Twitter or Facebook.
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