The wrestling world loves a good comparison, and WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi just delivered one that has fans talking. During his latest “Off The Top” podcast episode, the Samoan legend shared his thoughts on The Bloodline’s newest enforcer, JC Mateo, drawing an unexpected parallel to ECW icon Taz that perfectly captures what makes this powerhouse so intimidating.
The Taz Comparison That Has Wrestling Fans Buzzing
When Rikishi looked at JC Mateo’s imposing frame, one wrestler immediately came to mind. The comparison wasn’t to a modern-day giant or even a fellow Samoan warrior – it was to the Human Suplex Machine himself.
“Is it just me, or is he just stocky like Taz back in the day? He’s got such big shoulders man it just looks like he don’t got a neck…”
For wrestling purists, this comparison carries serious weight. Taz dominated ECW with his combination of compact power and technical prowess, becoming one of the most feared competitors of his era. Seeing those same physical attributes in Mateo suggests The Bloodline has found something special.
From Jeff Cobb to JC Mateo: A Bloodline Transformation
The man formerly known as Jeff Cobb made his WWE debut at Backlash on May 10, immediately establishing himself as The Bloodline’s most physically dominant member. His transition from NJPW standout to WWE superstar under a new identity demonstrates the company’s commitment to maximizing his potential.
Since joining WWE’s flagship faction, Mateo has systematically dismantled opponents on SmackDown. His victims include LA Knight, Rey Fenix, and even Jimmy Uso, proving that no one is safe from his devastating power moves. This dominant start has wrestling insiders comparing his impact to other monster debuts in WWE history.
Rikishi’s Professional Praise for WWE’s Newest Monster
Beyond the physical comparison, Rikishi expressed genuine admiration for Mateo’s in-ring abilities. The Hall of Famer highlighted two key aspects that make the newcomer dangerous: his surprising agility for someone his size and his ability to suplex virtually anyone.
This combination of speed and strength has already made Mateo a standout performer in The Bloodline’s arsenal. Rikishi’s endorsement carries extra significance given his own legendary status and connection to the Samoan wrestling dynasty that The Bloodline represents.
The Independent Circuit Journey Pays Off
Rikishi’s most heartfelt comments focused on Mateo’s journey to WWE success. Having navigated the challenging world of independent wrestling himself, the veteran understands the struggles that come with building a career outside major promotions.
“What he has learned and went through with the independent circuit, dealing with a lot of promoters, dealing with his own business as far as how to negotiate deals…I’m sure he was ready by the time he came to WWE, and to be able to have that financial security, whether he works in a work or doesn’t in a month, he still gets a weekly paycheck.”
This perspective reveals the business side of wrestling that fans rarely see. Mateo’s years of grinding through smaller promotions, learning to negotiate deals, and managing his own career prepared him for WWE’s corporate structure in ways that purely athletic talent cannot.
The Bloodline’s Newest Weapon
JC Mateo’s addition to The Bloodline represents more than just another big man joining wrestling’s most dominant faction. His unique combination of technical skill, raw power, and business acumen – all earned through years of independent wrestling – makes him a complete package that even legends like Rikishi can’t help but respect.
With Rikishi’s comparison to Taz now making waves throughout the wrestling community, the question becomes: will JC Mateo’s WWE run parallel the legendary dominance that made the Human Suplex Machine an ECW icon, or will The Bloodline’s newest monster forge an even more destructive path through sports entertainment?
