5 reasons why Pat McAfee is facing Austin Theory

The WrestleMania 38 card is beginning to take shape with more matches being added every week. This year's Show of Shows boasts some very intriguing matchups, both in the undercard and main events.

One of the stranger bouts scheduled is Pat McAfee vs. Austin Theory. It's a very peculiar matchup, but one that has put a lot of eyeballs on the product. The current SmackDown commentator going one-on-one with Vince McMahon’s latest prodigy is one of the more interesting WrestleMania feuds.

While some fans may not like Theory taking on a non-wrestler, McAfee’s wrestling credentials are legitimate. His match against Adam Cole was critically acclaimed, and fans were very impressed with his promo game.

A McAfee-Theory feud at WrestleMania is therefore not the worst idea. Here are five reasons why the match is happening on the Show of Shows.

#5. It's a high profile match that guarantees more viewers

Excitement is high for this feud

The simplest and most logical reason for WWE having Pat McAfee take to the ring at WrestleMania is that it will increase viewership. The sports analyst is famous outside Vince McMahon's circle as well, and his following will tune in if he wrestles at ‘Mania.

Putting him in a high-profile match against a McMahon-backed Theory is a great way to put more eyes on the pay-per-view. A lot of people will certainly be invested in the feud and will be watching the match with great interest.

#4. It gives Theory a match fitting of his recent push

Austin Theory has been one of the few surprises WWE has sprung on us in 2022. His sudden association with the Chairman of the company means he is getting a push. As such, the match against Pat McAfee makes perfect sense.

This is Theory’s chance to show the WWE Universe what he is all about. Facing a media personality like McAfee has elevated his bout to an attraction, which will put it high on the card. The onus is on him to deliver and put on a show.

#3. The rumored Vince McMahon feud could still be on

If this matchup happens, the rumours will have come true

Fans went crazy when it was speculated that Pat McAfee was in fact going to take on Vince McMahon at WrestleMania. Unfortunately, the Boss sent his lackey to do the dirty work.

However, we are betting WWE paid close attention to the excitement surrounding a potential McMahon return to the ring. McAfee seems like the perfect opponent for the Chairman as well, given he is not an actual wrestler.

McAfee could run into some Vinnie Mac-sponsored interference at WrestleMania and lose. If that happens, imagine the reactions when the podcaster challenges McMahon to a future bout.

#2. It establishes Pat McAfee as a credible competitor

While there is weight to the argument that Pat McAfee is taking a spot someone else could have used, there is no harm in creating new stars. McAfee is someone who is more of a Shane McMahon-type superstar - his ability is there, but not overexposed.

Most of the criticism for Shane is due to the fact that he's a McMahon, but McAfee will not face that issue. In fact, he is respected and appreciated by fans, and his match with Austin Theory is WWE capitalizing on that adoration.

#1. It tests the waters for a transition into full-time wrestling

McAfee could yet become a full-time WWE Superstar

Pat McAfee is a fantastic commentator. His two-person act with Michael Cole has given us some very entertaining moments on SmackDown. However, there's a feeling that his full talent is wasted if he only remains in that role.

McAfee is solid between the ropes, as evidenced by his previous two matches. If the goal is to indeed get him as a full-time superstar, a match at WrestleMania could be a great acid test.