WWE News: Chris Jericho on how WWE promos could improve

What’s the story?

On a recent edition of The Steve Austin Show, Chris Jericho opened up on a myriad of topics.

Jericho recalled the moment that led to him gradually getting the opportunity to cut an increased number of promos, while also praising a few old-school pro-wrestling mic-savants. Besides, Jericho also put forth a strategy that could help improve today’s WWE promos.

In case you didn’t know…

Chris Jericho is widely respected for his top-notch in-ring wrestling ability and perhaps even more for his excellent promo skills.

Jericho is praised by both fans and experts for his spontaneity and wit, as well as the ability to work irrespective of the kind of feud or segment he’s booked in.

The heart of the matter

Chris Jericho asserted that he achieved success in cutting promos as he always tried to connect with the fans, irrespective of whether they love or hate him. Y2J added that he adopted a strategy of working with mid-card performers such as Bob Holly, Rikishi, and Bradshaw which in turn helped him earn trust in the WWE after coming over from WCW.

Additionally, Jericho elucidated that he created the ‘Highlight Reel’ after being inspired by legendary interviewer Mean Gene Okerlund, and watching legends such as Arn Anderson, Ric Flair, The Mountie, and Glacier cut localized promos with ease.

Furthermore, Jericho recalled that Lex Luger once didn’t show up to cut a promo as he wanted to go to the gym, owing to which Y2J was given the spot and Gene Okerlund walked him through the interview. From there onwards, the number of promos Jericho cut gradually increased.

Jericho’s idea for the Highlight Reel was to simply get talent that usually doesn’t receive an opportunity to cut a promo on the show, and have them cut impromptu promos on the segment, however, the idea was shot down by Vince McMahon who only wanted top Superstars to be on the Highlight Reel. Jericho emphasized that a great strategy to improve WWE’s promos today would be to have a Superstar—without having informed him/her beforehand—to go out there in front of the crowd and cut a non-scripted promo; likely during the 5-minute break between the Main Event and RAW tapings every Tuesday. Jericho added that this would not only help gauge which Superstar needs more work on his/her promos but also show whether the crowd reacts better to the scripted or non-scripted promos.

What’s next?

Chris Jericho presently performs on the indie professional wrestling circuit—primarily dividing his time between NJPW and WWE.

Jericho’s next feud seems to be set against Tetsuya Naito in NJPW and is likely to gain steam in the weeks to come.

Author’s take

Chris Jericho is spot-on as regards cutting non-scripted, impromptu promos is concerned.

Perhaps the WWE could utilize the strategy suggested by Jericho, and test its current Superstars’ promo skills and adaptability on the fly.