The recent WWE RAW episode has intensified discussion around the Seth Rollins WWE booking controversy as veteran analyst Bill Apter criticized the handling of renowned Luchador Penta, following his clean loss to Bron Breakker. The situation highlights questions about Triple H’s booking decisions, as WWE fans and insiders alike wonder about the company‘s direction with a top international signing like Penta.
Penta’s Arrival and Ongoing Challenges in WWE
Penta, widely recognized as one of the top Luchadors globally, joined WWE in January, marking a major acquisition after his success in AEW. He became the fifth high-profile wrestler to move from AEW to WWE, following Cody Rhodes, Jade Cargill, CM Punk, and Andrade. This signing was seen as a strategic move, strengthening WWE’s roster and broadening its international appeal.
Despite Penta’s popularity and in-ring credentials, his journey in WWE has been marked by a series of tough losses. His recent match against Bron Breakker, a member of Seth Rollins’ faction, ended with Penta being pinned clean after a powerful Spear. This outcome has prompted confusion and concern from fans, as well as respected wrestling figures, given Penta’s impressive track record and reputation within the sport.
Critical Reactions From Veteran Journalist Bill Apter
Bill Apter, a Hall of Fame journalist, articulated his concerns about Penta’s current standing in WWE during an interview on The Wrestling Time Machine hosted by Sportskeeda WrestleBinge. Notably, Apter’s frustration centers on the way Penta has suffered multiple clean defeats in recent appearances, especially given the company‘s efforts to present him as a significant talent. Apter stated:
“You know, the WWE romance has taken AAA under their wing, right? Again, on recent Monday Night Raw, Penta got pinned cleanly by Bron Breakker. Clean pin and here, the broadcasters are selling Penta as the greatest thing in the whole world and there’s Bron Breakker. Boom. One, two, three. And then Seth Rollins gets in Penta’s face and says, you see, now you can’t come over me. You can’t come after me either. But they had him cleanly pinned, I don’t get it,” Apter said. [From 4:03 onwards] —Bill Apter, Hall of Fame journalist
Potential Storylines and Setbacks
Earlier this year, Penta openly declared his intention to compete for the Intercontinental Championship, signaling ambition for a major singles title. He was reportedly headed towards a feud with Chad Gable, but this storyline has stalled due to Gable’s recent injury. This delay has added to the uncertainty surrounding Penta’s future direction in WWE, as he has yet to claim any championship success since joining the company.
Implications for WWE’s Booking Approach
The ongoing Seth Rollins WWE booking controversy underscores the importance of how new and international stars are presented on major shows such as RAW. With established talents like Penta taking several clean losses despite heavy promotion, questions remain about WWE’s long-term planning and the potential impact on its reputation among both fans and potential recruits from other organizations. Observers now turn their attention to how Triple H and the creative team might adjust their approach in upcoming weeks, especially if Penta continues to be a focal point in high-profile matches.
