Ryback recently took to social media to share his thoughts on fans critiquing the physiques of wrestlers in NXT.
The former WWE star has become known for offering his unfiltered takes on various issues, and his Wednesday post on X (Twitter) related to NXT was no exception as he called on viewers of WWE’s developmental program to stop “tearing” down young wrestlers “before they’ve even had a real chance to grow.”
While Ryback did not indicate exactly what comments inspired his message, his X post followed the NXT debut of Mason Rooks (formerly Will Kroos). While the 29-year-old Rooks is a heavyweight, he doesn’t carry the chiseled physique often associated with WWE talent, which has been noted by many people on social media.
In his post, Ryback said that “a lot of people need to remember that WWE NXT is developmental. Even though it’s on TV and a bigger stage than ever before, what you’re watching is not the finished product of anyone, regardless of age, experience, or skill level.”
He continued: “WWE signs people because they see potential. Getting talent into the system gives them the best opportunity to learn, grow, develop confidence, improve their training, nutrition, psychology, character work, and discover who they truly are as performers.”
The retired star then recalled how his own WWE persona came to be.
“I wasn’t Ryback until I debuted as Ryback. Life experience, setbacks, growth, and time helped shape everything that eventually connected,” he wrote. “Confidence and development happen in stages for many talents. Pro wrestling has always been special because of the variety of personalities, looks, body types, and characters. That diversity is part of what made wrestling connect with so many people for generations.
“Unfortunately today, people online body shame everyone. People get criticized for being overweight, too skinny, too muscular, too shredded, not shredded enough. A lot of the negativity and judgment online is people projecting their own insecurities, fears, frustrations, and unhappiness onto others.”
Ryback concluded his message by stating, “Happiness is a choice. Supporting people trying to improve and chase their dreams will always be a better choice than tearing them down before they’ve even had a real chance to grow. And that’s the last bite. Feed Me More!”
Again, it’s not clear if Ryback was referencing Mason Rooks, but the new NXT talent can count at least one known retired WWE star as a fan: John Cena posted his support of the English wrestler more than once in his brief NXT run:
What do you think, Cagesiders? Do you agree with Ryback’s take that fans are being too harsh about NXT stars? Let us know in the comments.