Booker T has weighed in on the departure of Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods from WWE, calling both men first ballot Hall of Famers while fully endorsing their decision to seek more money elsewhere.
Speaking on the Hall of Fame podcast, Booker T was asked what he makes of the New Day situation and gave a candid assessment of where the duo stands in wrestling history and what comes next.
“What else could they have done in WWE? Other than win the titles one more time. That’s the only thing they could have done in WWE. I mean, sticking around, it’s one thing, but wanting to really be a part of the show, that’s where it comes down to with a lot of these guys, like Xavier Woods, like Kofi Kingston, who still think that they have a lot more to give to the game. And I heard it was one of those mutual things between both parties. Those guys are Hall of Famers. WWE Hall of Famers, first ballot Hall of Famers when the time comes up. So I’m sure it’s going to be a way back for those guys,” Booker T said.
He also made clear he has no issue with them choosing to prioritize their financial future over staying in WWE on reduced terms.
“I’m a realist, man. You don’t want to leave no money on the table. You don’t want to leave no money on the table. And out there right now is money floating around on the table. I remember last time when I said guys like Edge going over, Ric Flair, those guys, I said AEW is a good place to retire. But people don’t talk about what else I’d say. It’s a good place to start, like a Ricky Saints, like Ethan Page. It’s a great place to start, too. So I just wanted to put that out there. It is a great place to end your career. Damn, it is a great place to end your career. You can get paid just as much money on your way out as you’re making at the end of your career. Is that not a good deal?” Booker T said.
He closed by doubling down on the financial wisdom of the move.
“So I see so many people hating when I make a comment like that, but damn it, that’s a good deal if you can get it. So for me, Kofi Kingston, Xavier Woods, just like The Hurt Business, you gotta retire sometime, and you want to retire from this business with some money in your pocket. That’s the way I look at that,” Booker T said.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article, please credit the Hall of Fame podcast with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
