Drew McIntyre Comments on WWE TV Ratings Going Down, Working with Vince McMahon, SummerSlam, More
Drew McIntyre is the WWE Champion and he recently talked to TV Insider about a number of different topics. Here are some highlights.
Drew on what it’s like working with WWE Chairman Vince McMahon:
“We’ve always had a good relationship. Being WWE champion says a whole lot about the trust he has in me. That meant the world to me. I guess from my standpoint, that told me Vince is truly invested in me now. He trusts me. I’ve earned that respect, put the time into that respect. I think that is what our relationship is based on, respect. It’s based on honesty. If he doesn’t like something, he is not shy to say so. I’m very much the same.”
Drew’s thoughts on WWE television ratings going down to all-time lows in recent weeks:
“It doesn’t bring me down. I’ve been through so much. The ups and downs in my career. Some really low points. I don’t let it get to me or distract me from the goal at home. I know a lot of previous champions have let it get to them. They’ve suffered in their personal life as a result and lashed out on social media. I don’t allow it to get to me from that standpoint. Our WWE Universe, our audience is such a big part of the show. We’re all just giving it all we can. I know we’re learning through this period.
The audience that has stuck around are getting to learn about the characters on a deeper level. I think because of this when we get back into the arenas, the viewership will grow. I think we will reach new heights to be honest because we’re going to have so many compelling characters. A lot of superstars are maximizing their opportunity in this environment. Right now you can really develop your character on a deeper level through this unique lens. I think when we do get back in the arenas they will attract the attention of fans. I hear what is going on. I see what’s going on social media. Things are going well there, but they can also be better. Once we get back to normal, I think we’ll reach new heights as a company.”
The main event of WWE SummerSlam will see Drew defending the WWE Championship against Randy Orton. Here’s what Drew’s mindset is like heading into that match:
“I never got the opportunity to get in a serious program with Randy. We’ve always had our interactions, which have gotten a positive response. I have seen a difference in how motivated he is right now. He is naturally gifted and been around for so long and learned from the absolute best. Right now, he is a motivated Randy Orton. He is firing on all cylinders as a character and in the ring. This presents a very unique opportunity for me. This is what I’ve been wanting. I’ve been wanting a situation where I can show what I can truly do as a character beyond just in the ring. Randy Orton is Drew McIntyre’s Joker.”
There was a wild rumor of SummerSlam possibly taking place on a boat. Drew commented on that as well:
“It would certainly be unique, which is what it’s all about right now. We’re trying to catch people’s attention with something different. The environment at the Performance Center is what it is. But a boat would certainly catch my attention. I started getting all these crazy visions in my head. That would be cool if we can get The Lonely Island on a boat playing [their song] “I’m On A Boat.” I think we’re on to something.”
McIntyre delivered a great promo on Raw last night too. He’s doing very well as WWE Champion even though the company is not doing well in terms of retaining their television audience.