Mason Rook’s WWE NXT debut has already sparked strong reactions online, and now Ryback is stepping in to defend the newcomer after some fans criticized his appearance on social media.
The massive newcomer signed with NXT recently after making headlines during the May 12 episode of the brand. Mason Rook introduced himself to the audience by saying he has traveled all over the world and turns heads everywhere he goes. He even referenced John Cena during his promo while calling himself a “flying human tank.”
Things escalated quickly when NXT Champion Tony D’Angelo interrupted him before Cam Hendricks attacked Tony D from behind. The segment broke down into chaos before Rook launched himself onto both men and officially signed his NXT contract inside the ring.
However, social media reaction to Rook quickly turned into debate over his physique, with some fans mocking him for not having the typical body associated with modern WWE stars.
Former WWE star Ryback posted a video to Facebook Reels defending Mason Rook and pushing back against the criticism. Ryback admitted there has already been controversy surrounding Rook’s television debut, but he personally supports the new NXT talent.
“He’s big, he’s bad, and he’ll body slam your dad. Something tells me this isn’t just a fad. Yo, I’m the big guy Ryback. And Mason Rook is in NXT. And there’s a lot of talk, a lot of controversy, a lot of people happy and unhappy that he is on TV in WWE and WWE NXT.”
Ryback then explained why he believes Rook’s unique look could actually help him succeed in professional wrestling over time.
“I personally am very happy for him. And he has a very unique look. And people with a unique look in pro wrestling tend to do very well over time.”
The former WWE Intercontinental Champion also pointed to his own history in the business while discussing why wrestling should feature performers with all different body types and appearances.
“Pro wrestling needs people, needs characters, need human beings in all different shapes and sizes. And all that ultimately matters is whether you can go in the ring or not and take care of your opponents and you’re able to go out there and put in a full effort.”
Ryback continued by reminding fans that wrestlers come from completely different backgrounds and situations before arriving in WWE developmental. He noted that people develop physically at different rates and should not immediately be judged based on how they look when first signed.
“Everybody comes from different backgrounds, different countries. People have different exposure to supplements, to the right foods. They have different upbringings with that. And everybody is a different age when they get signed by WWE.”
He then directly addressed fans who have been attacking Mason Rook online, calling for people to stop projecting negativity onto others chasing their goals.
“Just be decent and kind. Don’t project, don’t put your insecurities onto other people out there, because there’s no place for that.”
Ryback closed his message by suggesting that some critics may actually see parts of themselves in Mason Rook, except Rook is actively trying to improve his life by chasing his dream in WWE.
“Maybe Mason Rook reminds some of you of yourselves, except for the difference between him and you is that he is actually taking action in going after his dream and pursuing a better life.”
Mason Rook has already become one of the more talked-about new names in NXT only weeks into his television run. While some fans continue debating his look, Ryback clearly believes Rook’s uniqueness could become one of his biggest strengths if he proves himself inside the ring.
What do you think about Ryback defending Mason Rook, and do you believe WWE needs more wrestlers with unique looks instead of the same traditional physiques? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
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