WrestleMania is 41 fast approaching, and the excitement is at an all-time high. Superstars are in the final stages of preparation, and the grand spectacle of WrestleMania weekend is taking shape. Amidst the buzz, certain storylines have caught the attention of renowned American professional wrestling writer Vince Russo.
Vince Russo Questions WWE’s Timing For Top Champion’s New Storyline
Lyra Valkyria, the reigning Women’s Intercontinental Champion, recently defended her title against Bayley on the April 7 episode of RAW, a move that Russo believes lacks proper build-up.
Talking to Dr. Chris Featherstone, he discusses the same in a recent episode of Legion of RAW. The wrestling analyst has voiced his frustration over WWE’s handling of Valkyria’s WrestleMania 41 build-up. He criticised the company for introducing a new storyline just two weeks before the grand event.
Russo believes it’s too “late” to craft an interesting storyline. He questioned WWE’s creative direction, saying, “What are you gonna book in two weeks, man? You know what I mean? [Lyra Valkyria] gets jumped by somebody. What else are you gonna book in two weeks?”
He slammed WWE, claiming that with so little time before WrestleMania 41, their options were restricted. It could either be a rushed feud or a random attack, both of which, in his view, would fail an engaging story.
With Bayley having already defeated Lyra Valkyria in a non-title match to qualify for the Elimination Chamber earlier this year, Russo faulted WWE’s decision to delay their title feud instead of building it up earlier. His concern is that cramming such an essential storyline into a short time frame not only weakens the narrative but also diminishes the prestige of both the championship and the match itself.
Russo Comments On WWE’s Latest Directions during WrestleMania 41 season
Continuing his commentary, Russo aimed at the newly introduced Women’s Intercontinental Championship and Women’s United States Championship, questioning their purpose. “Why, why, why even create those two titles…if you’re not going to make them mean anything?” he asked.
Russo criticised the handling of the Women’s United States Championship, questioning WWE’s direction with Chelsea Green, the current champion. He pointed out the lack of explanation for Alba Fyre’s sudden alliance with Green. Reportedly, Blair Davenport was set to be part of the group, but her release changed plans. Russo highlighted, much like Lyra Valkyria’s feud, this storyline also suffers from poor buildup and minimal storytelling.
As WrestleMania 41 approaches, Russo’s criticism raises a crucial question—without proper storytelling and meaningful buildup, can WWE’s newest championships truly establish their place in the industry, or are they destined to fade into nothing?