Austin Theory’s return to WWE has not impressed everyone, despite his dramatic reintroduction as a masked man aligned with The Vision.
After spending months away from television, Austin Theory resurfaced by aiding the group before unmasking with a new buzzed hairstyle and darker ring gear, officially joining the stable. While some fans welcomed his comeback, WWE Hall of Famer Bully Ray was openly critical of what he had seen so far.
Speaking on Busted Open Radio, Bully Ray described Theory’s presentation as unconvincing.
“Austin Theory’s return has been lukewarm, at best,” Bully Ray said. “Like, I saw him last night try to do the mean face when Paul [Heyman] was talking about him. So forced, so forced.”
Bully Ray argued that if WWE truly wanted to elevate Theory immediately, a Royal Rumble victory would have been the way to do it.
“If you ever wanted Austin Theory to be a player overnight and shake things up, my God, Austin Theory wins the Royal Rumble,” he said.
Instead, the Men’s Royal Rumble was won by Roman Reigns, leaving Theory without the major momentum shift Bully Ray believes could have changed his trajectory. He suggested that a Rumble win would have given Theory the opportunity to carve out a more disruptive role within The Vision.
“It’s a hell of a story within a story,” Bully Ray added.
What Has Austin Theory Said About His WWE Future?
Austin Theory has since spoken positively about his own future. Appearing on WWE Raw Recap, he reflected on his past accomplishments, including his victory over John Cena at WrestleMania 39, and highlighted his status as the youngest Money in the Bank winner and former WWE United States Champion.
Theory said he still has many goals left to achieve in WWE and believes his return marks the start of another major chapter in his career, even as criticism continues over how his latest run has begun.
