Steve Carrier on April 8, 2025
Big E became an unexpected topic of controversy during the April 7 episode of Monday Night RAW—and it all stemmed from a single joke.
Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, who joined commentary for the World Tag Team Title match between The New Day and The War Raiders, made a jab that immediately got people talking. While trying to bring some humor to the match, Hinchcliffe said, “The only thing stiffer than Michael Cole is Big E’s neck.”
The line struck a nerve with fans who felt the joke went too far, considering Big E’s serious neck injury that has kept him out of action. Now, Big E has responded—and while he didn’t lash out, he made it clear that he wasn’t thrilled either.
During an appearance on RAW Recap with Sam Roberts and Megan Morant, Big E addressed the comment directly. “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.”
Big E continued, “It was said on the show. I’m supposed to talk, especially when things are mentioned about me, I should have an opinion about them. It’s just, it is tiring to have to weigh in on everyone’s opinion or whatever they say. 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 (he laughed). 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.”
While Big E took the high road, the reaction online has been split. Some fans defended Hinchcliffe’s dark comedy style, while others felt WWE crossed a line by allowing that kind of joke to air—especially about a beloved star with a real-life injury.
With The Roast of WrestleMania coming up—an off-air event set to feature stand-up sets from WWE Superstars and hosted by Hinchcliffe—fans are wondering just how far the company will let things go.
Please credit Ringside News if you use the above transcript in your publication.
Do you think Tony Hinchcliffe went too far with his joke about Big E’s neck? Or was it just comedy doing what comedy does? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
April 8, 2025 8:06 am
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