What’s the story?
On a recent edition of the Wrestling Observer Radio, pro-wrestling industry insider Dave Meltzer compared the WWE’s booking of Gran Metalik to TNA’s (Impact Wrestling) highly-criticized booking of Japanese star Kazuchika Okada.
He opined that the WWE is wasting away Gran Metalik in its Cruiserweight division.
In case you didn’t know...
Gran Metalik’s real name has not been documented as of yet, and he wrestled as Mascara Dorada in another life. Gran Metalik is a veteran of notable promotions such as CMLL (Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre) and NJPW (New Japan Pro Wrestling). The 28-year old participated in the WWE Cruiserweight Classic last year and also made his RAW debut.
The heart of the matter
Gran Metalik defeated Drew Gulak in what was his debut match on the 205 Live brand, this past February 14th. Meltzer stated that although the Mexican star may not be as skilled as the widely respected Japanese star Kazuchika Okada, his poor booking in WWE is akin to Impact Wrestling’s misuse of the talented Okada.
Meltzer added that Gran Metalik’s rope-walking and flying abilities are unparalleled, particularly for performers in the United States of America, aside from 26-year old California native Rey Fenix. He added that Metalik has a style that no one else has and that the young star is unique and can get ‘over’ with the fans.
Meltzer criticised the WWE management for the apparent lack of push they’ve been affording to Gran Metalik, noting that his potential is being laid to waste in the WWE Cruiserweight division.
Also read: 5 WWE Superstars who could improve the Cruiserweight division
What’s next?
Gran Metalik is signed to WWE’s RAW brand and mostly competes on 205 Live. It’s unclear, as of yet, whether WWE plans to use him in a bigger capacity on the main-roster.
Author’s take
To say that Gran Metalik is one of the best high-flyers in the business today, would, in and of itself, be a severe understatement. The young Luchador pulls off moves that seem- forgive me for sounding cheesy- out-and-out gravity-defying!
I’d love to see Metalik get a greater push in WWE- something that’s long overdue for the talented daredevil. Viva El Joven Maravilla!
Send us news tips at [email protected]
