Drew McIntyre has publicly signaled apparent frustration with his on-screen booking, replying to a promotional post from WWE with a message that aligns with growing fan disappointment.
The official WWE X (formerly Twitter) account posted a link to a video playlist highlighting McIntyre’s recent failures. The post read, “From being attacked by @CMPunk to controversial calls by the official, relive @DMcIntyreWWE’s toughest defeats in World Title Matches.” McIntyre posted a direct reply, writing simply: “Read the room.”
McIntyre’s response has amplified a long-running sentiment among many fans who feel he has been repeatedly mishandled as a top star. Online discussion indicates a strong belief that WWE has “wasted potential” and established a “pattern of building him up only to let him down.”
A Pattern of Failed Opportunities
Fan frustration often centers on a series of high-profile losses and “botched opportunities.” These include failed or short title reigns and significant losses in major matches, such as at Clash at the Castle.
Fans also point to specific moments, such as his failed Money in the Bank cash-in attempt that was interfered with by CM Punk, as examples of storylines that stall his momentum.
Criticisms of Creative Direction
The criticism extends beyond just match outcomes to McIntyre’s broader creative direction. Fans have pointed to dropped storylines, such as his “Relentless hunter” or “Bloodline slayer” arcs, which they feel were abandoned without resolution.
There is also a perception that his heel character has been “ruined” by underwhelming feuds, with some discussions highlighting his involvement with non-wrestlers like Jelly Roll or in matches against opponents like Logan Paul and Jimmy Uso.
Prioritizing Other Stars
A dominant theme in online discussions is the sentiment that WWE has prioritized other stars, such as World Heavyweight Champion Cody Rhodes, at McIntyre’s expense.
Fans highlight specific match outcomes where McIntyre lost due to outside factors, such as referee interference or exposed turnbuckles, as evidence that creative decisions are made to protect other champions, even when McIntyre is carrying the feud.
Blurring Lines with Real-Life Issues
This on-screen frustration is often connected by fans to McIntyre’s real-life status with the company. Discussions frequently reference past reports of difficult contract negotiations and rumored changes to his WrestleMania plans.
This convergence of storyline losses and real-world reports has fueled a narrative that the company is failing to properly utilize one of its top talents, potentially risking his departure. McIntyre’s “Read the room” comment is being viewed by many as a direct acknowledgment of this widespread frustration.
