Recently, WWE announced the suspension of three wrestlers due to their failure in a drug test, which is a part of the company’s Talent Wellness Policy. The former World Heavyweight Champion Alberto Del Rio, former WWE Divas Champion Paige and Eva Marie were penalised with 30-day suspensions for their first violation under that policy.
While the other two superstars didn’t comment, Eva Marie broke the silence. Not only did she apologise for her actions but also mentioned that she will appeal the suspension. Eva revealed that her suspension was due to the absence of a proper paperwork with the WWE office. She stated that she was prescribed by her doctor to use Adderall, for which she was tested positive. If any superstar uses any prescribed drug they need to make sure that the WWE is notified about it.
Some reports indicate that the Wellness Policy test only reveals what the Superstar tested positive for but the exact medicine can’t be identified. If WWE is aware of the medicine used by that person, they will know why the test resulted positive. Otherwise, a suspension or a termination awaits the superstar.
As Paige and Eva Marie are associated with the Total Divas show, some speculated these suspensions as a part of the storyline only. It has been confirmed lately that all the recent suspensions are legitimate.
WWE has been always strict with the wrestlers who were found to violate the company’s wellness program. The suspension of former World Champions like Roman Reigns, Randy Orton, Rob Van Dam, in the past only highlights their will to make sure the talent stays on track.
Interestingly, one of the biggest box-office draws for WWE, Brock Lesnar failed a USADA test prior his match against Mark Hunt at UFC 200 in July. As the Beast Incarnate tested positive, many assumed that he will be suspended by WWE as well. Whereas the company had a different viewpoint - they exempted Lesnar by stating that a part-time worker doesn’t need to be tested under their Wellness policy. This decision, however, has damaged the reputation of WWE and they were eager to change such mindset.
According to Wrestling Observer, Brock’s failure ultimately led the company to do a surprise test on the workers. As they performed such test only a few weeks ago, it was shocking for most of the guys in the locker room. Although three wrestlers have been already suspended there are rumors indicating a few more additions to that list.
The entire scenario is a result of the actions of Brock Lesnar and he can be stated as a reason behind the recent and upcoming suspensions.
