I promised myself Curtis Axel would become the main thing in 2013. Paul Heyman built Curtis into his popular character which resulted in two John Cena and Triple H victories.
Curtis Axel: The Missed Opportunity of 2013
The wrestling community including me believed Curtis Axel would reach the top in 2013. WWE provided him with an extensive promotional campaign by pairing him with Paul Heyman whose status as a legendary wrestling manager secured his position in wrestling history. Since his debut he won matches against Triple H in two separate occasions and John Cena. His achievements should have established him as a top-level wrestler. A successful Intercontinental Championship run alongside his matches against Cena and Triple H made Axel appear to be on track for becoming a superstar.
Perfect Start
WWE made a fresh start for Michael McGillicutty under the Curtis Axel name which honored both his father and grandfather in the ring. By aligning himself with "Paul Heyman Guys" Curtis Axel gained membership in an elite group which included Brock Lesnar and CM Punk. The presence of Heyman next to him opened limitless opportunities.
WWE gave him successful performances during his initial period. His most significant triumphs involved picking up wins against Triple H through forfeiture on Raw and John Cena through a countout. The victories came without proper finishes yet they proved to WWE fans Axel could be considered a promising newcomer.
During Payback 2013 he received the Intercontinental Championship which made him the third member of his family to hold this prestigious title. The title which his father established to be prestigious appeared to be the ideal pathway for building his reputation.
Where It All Went Wrong
WWE never provided full commitment to make Axel a leading performer. His relationship with Paul Heyman as a client failed to achieve the same level of focus that Heyman had given to his previous wrestling clients. WWE did not feature his microphone skills and gradually removed Heyman from his corner so Brock Lesnar and CM Punk became the main focus.
The period where he carried the Intercontinental Championship title seemed underwhelming. The WWE turned their attention away from Chris Jericho so he ended up being a forgotten figure who received few important matches. Big E Langston claimed the Intercontinental Championship from Axel at the moment his momentum completely vanished.
Axel descended through the card until he created his Axeman character before teaming up with Bo Dallas to form The B-Team. The entertaining matches he participated in fell short of reaching the main-event status which fans had originally anticipated for his wrestling career.
Legacy of Curtis Axel
WWE possessed all the components needed to make Curtis Axel succeed with his wrestling background and ring skills coupled with his legendary manager but failed to launch his career. During 2013 his potential rise had the potential to expand but his journey ended up becoming one of modern wrestling's frustrating "what if" narratives.
People who supported Axel during his early WWE days cannot help but ponder about his untapped potential.
By Wrestle Mera
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