WWE Disappointed By Celebrity Appearance

WWE has conceded that a recent celebrity spot didn’t come off as hoped.

On the April 7 episode of Raw, comedian Tony Hinchcliffe appeared on commentary during the Tag Team Title match between The New Day and the War Raiders. The appearance was designed to promote the upcoming “Roast of WrestleMania” that will be hosted by Hinchcliffe.

However, fans were less than impressed after the star made a joke where he said the only thing stiffer than Michael Cole is Big E’s neck.

Hinchcliffe is already a controversial figure as back in October, he called Puerto Rico an “island of garbage” at a rally for Donald Trump. The rest of his speech was littered with other racial tropes many found offensive.

As reported by Fightful Select, people backstage admitted the appearance came across as a “dud,” but said Hinchcliffe was very respectful while at the taping.

WWE Star Big E Responds

Hinchcliffe’s quip regarding Big E immediately drew backlash online, but the man himself had a slightly different take.

During an appearance on Raw Recap, Big E denied being upset and said the comment had nothing to do with him.

“At my big age of 39 years old, people will say what they want about you… Has nothing to do with me. That’s not my business. Say what you want. He was given a mic, he was given an opportunity. People will feel how they want to…

Look, I’m not hurt, I’m good. I want the discourse to be happy without me, honestly… I didn’t sign up for this (laughs). I wasn’t aware of this. He did what he wanted to. People signed off on it. It has nothing to do with me. Truly.”

Big E has been out of action since March 11th, 2022. During a tag team match on SmackDown, the star landed high up on his neck while taking a Belly-to-Belly Suplex outside the ring from Ridge Holland.