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What’s the story?
A WWE representative has issued a statement to ESPN regarding the status of the performers who were reportedly diagnosed with a viral infection, mumps. The issued statement confirms the reports about the viral infection and indicates that three performers are currently diagnosed with the same.
The representative stated:
"We have confirmed that three of our performers have been diagnosed with a viral infection. As a precautionary measure, we are ensuring in-ring performers and staff are tested and immunized in accordance with recommended medical guidelines."
In case you did not know…
Due to the outbreak of the mumps, WWE was forced to make two huge changes to their TLC pay-per-view. The first change saw Roman Reigns being replaced by Raw General Manager Kurt Angle when the second change saw AJ Styles filling in for Bray Wyatt. Earlier reports had revealed that Reigns and Bray were diagnosed with viral infections.
Angle will now be part of the 5-on-3 handicap Tables, Ladders and Chairs match on the show when Styles will go up against Finn Balor in a one-on-one match.
The heart of the matter
The statement from the WWE representative confirms the reports of a viral infection outbreak in WWE. While the statement did not reveal the name of the three wrestlers, considering the changes made to TLC, it could include both Roman Reigns and Bray Wyatt.
As for the third performer, earlier, there were rumours indicating that it could be Bo Dallas. He has also been off television for some time as well.
What’s next?
The 5-on-3 handicap match at TLC will mark the WWE in-ring return of Kurt Angle after 11 years. Angle will also be teaming up with Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose for the first time.
As for Finn Balor vs. AJ Styles, it has been a dream match for the fans ever since both superstars came under the same roof. These will be the two major attractions of TLC and WWE has also lined up two title matches for the show which will take place at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Author’s take
It’s good to know that WWE is taking measures to curb the threat to their performers. The infection seems to be serious from the statement and it was a good decision from WWE’s side to get their staff tested.
The WWE medical team had received a lot of criticism due to the CM Punk situation that happened a few years back. But the way in which they had dealt with this recent infection outbreak indicates that WWE is still in the driving seat when it comes to ensuring the health of their performers.
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