Austin Theory Calls Pat McAfee an ‘Old Guy’ While Pushing WWE to Move on From Veterans

Pat McAfee’s role in the Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes storyline has already caused plenty of debate behind the scenes, but now Austin Theory has added his own blunt reaction to the situation.

The storyline stirred conversation across WWE after McAfee attacked Cody Rhodes on the April 3 episode of SmackDown and was revealed as Randy Orton’s mystery phone ally. Reports later indicated that the move was supported at the corporate level as part of a push to boost interest in the show and strengthen ties with ESPN.

Even with that plan in place, not everyone inside WWE reportedly agreed with the direction, and internal reaction to the angle was said to be mixed. Now, Theory has weighed in publicly.

While speaking to Adrian Hernandez on Unlikely, Austin Theory was asked directly about Pat McAfee’s involvement and didn’t hesitate to give his opinion. Instead of dancing around the topic, he brushed off McAfee’s comments and took a swipe at older names while pushing his own vision of WWE’s future.

“I think whatever is going on there, that's just for that lane. I think for me personally, I really don't care what he says. I think he's an old guy, too. So, all these guys, they're just, you know, they're sitting there with dust all over them and they need to get out of here. It's time for the shiny stuff. It's time for the greatest tag team champions of all time, Austin Theory and Logan Paul to, you know, let the world know that The Vision is clear and it has nothing to do with a CM Punk, a Roman Reigns, none of this, a Cody Rhodes. We're done. How many times do we have to see this? Like, we're just done with it, man.”

Theory didn’t just call out McAfee — he made it clear he believes the focus should shift away from established stars and toward newer names like himself and Logan Paul. With WrestleMania 42 getting closer and the McAfee storyline still unfolding, reactions like Theory’s are only adding more attention to an angle that already has people talking behind the scenes.

What do you think about Austin Theory’s comments on Pat McAfee — is he right about WWE needing to move toward newer stars, or do established names still carry the show?

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