"They didn't buy that' - WWE fans aren't into a SmackDown star seemingly going heel, feels Dutch Mantell (Exclusive)

Modified Nov 16, 2024 12:18 GMT

The latest SmackDown episode had some high-profile showdowns. [Image via: WWE.com]

Character alterations are inevitable in WWE, as talents often need to reinvent themselves to stay relevant. Montez Ford is seemingly going through a change as we speak, but Dutch Mantell doesn't believe the fans want to see it.

In recent weeks, Ford has been more open about his frustrations with the booking of The Street Profits. The duo have looked more aggressive and took on Motor City Machine Guns for the tag team title on WWE SmackDown this week.

Dutch Mantell observed that Ford was trying to look more serious during the match, potentially leaning into being a heel. The former WWE manager also noticed that the crowd wasn't reacting as the company might want.

Mantell explained:

RIP AEW Rampage

"I saw Montez Ford had a very stoic, mad-like face, I guess he was trying to be a heel. The people, they didn't buy that. They didn't want to take him as a heel. You know, sometimes they turn somebody's heel, the people don't buy it, and they have to go around." [From 59:18 onwards]

Dutch Mantell agreed that the roster and storylines on TV were a little bit "scattered" currently, barring The Bloodline saga.

As stated earlier, Mantell wanted to see WWE push stars completely and not hesitate in letting some win matches that they might otherwise lose.

Dutch also wanted talents to know their roles and perform accordingly in matches, preventing fans from being confused about whether to cheer or boo them.

"I said it's scattered. You don't know who are the good guys? Who are the bad guys? When you split that crowd, you are making it harder for yourself. If you're going to do it, do it. If they do another one like, choose who you want, I think you're hurting the quality of the match." [From 58:36 onwards]

The Street Profits' match against MCMG ended in a DQ, thanks to outside interference, and it seems like their story on television is surely far from over.

Please credit Smack Talk and give a H/T to Sportskeeda Wrestling for the transcription.

Edited by Sanchari Bhattacharya