Axel vs Triple H – One Step Up
I'm not loving the cheesy, back-and-forth dynamic between the McMahon trio, but I do see how it could ultimately pay off for a guy like Axel, IF they let it. Axel has everything to gain from this, and very little to lose.
I say that because fresh, young talent is a dime a dozen in WWE right now.
Curtis Axel isn't a phenomenon that deserves superstardom right away. If he makes it, great. But it won't be because he had this crazy natural ability from the very beginning – otherwise, he would have already been given the opportunity before this.
Paul Heyman is a huge factor in Axel's success right now. Without Heyman's endorsement – and vocal work – Axel would have a much steeper mountain to climb than he already does.
The issue will be if this becomes more about Triple H vs Vince McMahon than it is Heyman and Axel vs Triple H .
Last night on Raw, whether you enjoyed the Hunter/Vince/Steph stuff or not, it did little-to-nothing to help Axel. It's still early, I get that, but first impressions are still crucial.
I can't speculate yet on whether or not Axel has what it takes to be a big superstar at some point in the future. His mic work is a little iffy to me and he doesn't have a special, quality look. I have hope, however, if for no other reason than his lineage.
Axel really only needs to be half of "Perfect" and he'll still have a bright future. I just hope Vince and Triple H don't doom him before he even has the chance.
