WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi has publicly condemned the company’s creative direction regarding his son, Jey Uso, following a significant title change on the June 9 edition of WWE RAW. The criticism came after Jey Uso’s 51-day reign as World Heavyweight Champion concluded with a loss to Gunther.
The title change, which surprised many viewers, has been a topic of considerable discussion. Reports indicate the primary reason for the decision was to position Gunther for a championship defense against Goldberg at the Saturday Night’s Main Event on July 12.
Speaking on his Rikishi Fatu Off The Top podcast, the Hall of Famer directed pointed remarks at the individuals responsible for his son’s storylines.
“I feel that those that are writing for this kid his storyline, you didn’t do him justice. You didn’t feed this champion right talent to be able to continue to make this champion… I say fire, fire,” Rikishi stated.
He further elaborated on what he perceives as a failure by the creative staff to properly handle a champion they selected.
“Those that are writing for this kid here, if you can’t come up with some something simple to promote and push your champion that you… decide to put this kid in that position… get the hell out,” he added.
Rikishi’s frustrations also extended to the treatment of the Anoa’i family’s legacy within WWE, prompted by speculation he saw regarding the contractual status of his cousin, Roman Reigns.
“Here’s a guy that Main Event Wrestlemania, six main events and more to come… Y’all do the math every Wrestlemania… That’s a lot of money. And guess whose face was on that, leading that… Roman Reigns, bloodline member,” Rikishi said, highlighting Reigns’ value to the company.
He concluded with a firm defense of his family’s contributions to the professional wrestling industry.
“If you’re done with it, say it. You want to move on. Say it, but damn it. I’ll be damned I’m gonna sit back and you try to erase the history of our family, of what we put into this business,” Rikishi declared.
Despite the championship loss, a path back to title contention has been established for Jey Uso. He is scheduled to compete in the King of the Ring tournament on the June 16 episode of WWE RAW, with a victory securing a World Title match at SummerSlam.
READ MORE: WWE Veteran Weighs In On Whether Jey Uso Is ‘Buried’ After Gunther Loss