Big E has used JD McDonagh’s Raw victory over Finn Balor as an opportunity to make the case that the Irishman deserves more recognition for his in-ring work than he typically receives.
Speaking on Raw Recap, Big E was asked about McDonagh’s win and used the moment to separate the performer from the faction he is associated with.
“I’m glad that we’re putting more respect on JD’s name. We see him backstage with the Judgment Day, we see him interfering often, but he’s not really given the spotlight that often to be able to have singles matches. All the Judgment Day run-ins, backstages and clubhouse, let’s put all that aside, and let’s talk about this man’s ability. Truly one of our best in-ring workers across the board. This guy can absolutely go. I think he takes more risks than anyone else, as well. I remember him nearly dying, hitting that announce table, but that hasn’t stopped him. It seemingly only upped the ante on the risks as well. So, we can talk a lot about the Judgment Day and how big this was for them and the group dynamics, but I feel like we don’t get to spend enough time talking about JD and his in-ring ability. He’s a joy to watch as a wrestler. He’s got it, man,” Big E said.
The announce table incident Big E referenced occurred in January 2025, when McDonagh was hospitalized after a springboard moonsault sent the back of his neck crashing into the announcer’s table. The fact that his risk-taking has only escalated since returning from that moment speaks to the commitment Big E is highlighting.
On Monday’s Raw, it was Roxanne Perez who got involved in the Balor and McDonagh match, striking Balor with a hammer and reinforcing her allegiance with the Judgment Day. Liv Morgan has since praised Perez, stating that WWE’s future will be in safe hands with her.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article, please credit Raw Recap with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
