One big thing: JBL admits he “dropped the ball” in failed pairing with Baron Corbin
Former WWE champion John Bradshaw Layfield (JBL) has taken responsibility for the unsuccessful on-screen partnership with Baron Corbin that ended abruptly in early 2023.
The details:
• JBL and Corbin were paired on WWE television in late 2022, with JBL acting as Corbin’s mentor.
• The partnership showed initial promise but fizzled out by February 2023.
• In a recent interview on Huge Pop, JBL reflected on the failed pairing.
Key quotes:
• “I don’t know what happened, and I don’t know what the plan was. They never told me,” JBL said about the partnership’s direction.
• “It didn’t work. If it didn’t, blame me. I’m the veteran,” JBL stated, taking responsibility for the failure.
• “Baron is a good, talented guy. Very tough guy. Very smart guy. I like Baron,” JBL praised his former on-screen protégé.
Why it matters:
The JBL-Corbin pairing was an attempt to elevate Corbin’s status in WWE. Its failure highlights the challenges in creating successful mentor-protégé storylines and the unpredictable nature of on-screen chemistry in professional wrestling.
The bigger picture:
• WWE often pairs veteran performers with younger talent to help elevate new stars.
• The success of these pairings can significantly impact a wrestler’s career trajectory.
• JBL’s candid admission shows a level of professionalism and accountability rarely seen in the wrestling industry.
Since the split, JBL has been making appearances across various wrestling promotions, working with rising talents like Nic Nemeth and Mance Warner.
What do you think could have made the JBL-Corbin partnership more successful? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
