Controversy has erupted over Jey Uso‘s World Heavyweight Championship 51-day reign on RAW, as WWE legend Teddy Long publicly criticized the company’s decision to end the run so soon. The short-lived title reign has ignited emotional debate across the WWE Universe regarding Jey’s role and WWE’s creative direction.
Teddy Long Criticizes Short Title Reign
After securing a major victory by defeating Gunther at WrestleMania 41, Jey Uso’s title reign was cut short when he dropped the World Heavyweight Championship back to Gunther on RAW, just 51 days later. Teddy Long, known for his history as SmackDown General Manager, addressed his disappointment about this quick change on his Road Trip After Hours podcast.
“To me, and this is my opinion, you know, I thought it was too soon,”
Long said.
“I thought he’d get a little bit of a run with it, you know what I mean? So, sometimes, you know, when you keep it for a minute, then, then when you do take it, it means something. Always remember this. It’s not how you win the title, it’s how you lose it,”
he stated. —Teddy Long, WWE Hall of Famer
The comments highlight frustration within the wrestling community about the direction of top championship storylines and showcase concern regarding whether such brief reigns hurt the prestige of the World Heavyweight Championship.
Fan Response to Jey Uso’s Reign Remained Divided
Jey Uso earned his shot at the title by winning the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble, famously eliminating John Cena to secure his WrestleMania moment. The win received a mixed reaction from audiences, with some fans cheering for the underdog’s surprise accomplishment and others questioning WWE’s choice to elevate him as champion.
Despite the crowd-pleasing moment at WrestleMania, criticism from Jey’s detractors intensified, as many voices within the WWE Universe continued to debate his worthiness as champion. The mounting backlash is believed to have influenced WWE’s decision to return the title to Gunther, suggesting the company prioritized restoring the belt’s credibility amid controversy.
Looking Ahead After the Title Change
The rapid end to Jey Uso’s World Heavyweight Championship 51-day reign continues to fuel discussion about WWE’s creative choices and the long-term status of top-tier championship holders. As Gunther reclaims the title, attention now turns to how WWE will address fan reactions and the ripple effects on future championship contenders. The conflicting emotions from both fans and wrestling insiders like Teddy Long make it clear this storyline will remain a significant talking point in the months ahead.
