Stephen A. Smith nearly became part of WWE television — but he admits he backed off when he thought about what that could actually mean.
The ESPN personality reacted to Pat McAfee getting pulled into the storyline involving Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes, where McAfee was revealed as the mystery caller influencing Orton. While some fans had mixed reactions, Stephen A. made it clear he loved the angle and respected McAfee for stepping into the WWE world.
During a discussion on First Take, Stephen A. revealed that WWE President Nick Khan once approached him about possibly getting involved in WWE himself.
“I love it. I want to applaud Pat McAfee for that. I actually want to do that. Your man Nick Khan talked to me about that.”
But even though the idea sounded fun, Stephen A. admitted there was one big reason he didn’t move forward — he didn’t want to risk taking hits from WWE wrestlers. He openly said that McAfee showed more guts than he was willing to bring to the table.
“The difference is, I’m not as courageous as Pat McAfee. I ain’t trying to get hit by one of them big boys, at all. I don’t want no parts of it, but I love that stuff because I think the sport needs it.”
With celebrities and sports personalities showing up more often in WWE storylines, it’s clear that crossover moments like McAfee’s aren’t slowing down anytime soon. Whether Stephen A. ever changes his mind is another question, but he made it clear he respects the people willing to step into that world.
Would you want to see Stephen A. Smith show up in WWE someday, or was he smart to stay out of the ring? Let us know what you think and share your thoughts in the comments below.