WWE Commentator Airs Frustration About Austin Theory's Current Direction

WWE fans have been up and down on their opinions of Austin Theory since winning the Money in the Bank contract, but most have since shifted to his side after failing to come out victorious in his cash-in on the United States Championship held by Seth Rollins.

On the November 7 episode of Raw, Theory decided to go after Rollins after the latter was attacked by Bobby Lashley–seeing it as an opportunity to win his first-ever title in WWE.

Theory had Rollins right where he wanted him and as the referee counted the pinfall, Lashley returned and attacked Theory which eventually left him vulnerable for Rollins' curb stomp finisher, helping him retain the U.S. title.

Seeing it all play out ringside was Raw commentator Corey Graves and he aired out his grievances about the outcome on his "After the Bell" podcast.

"I'm furious with how it all played out. I was furious as it was unfolding before our very eyes ... As a real human being and as an on-air character, Seth Freaking Rollins and Austin Theory are two of my favorites," Graves said to open his statement.

"I think the world of Austin Theory and I truly believe what Mr. (Vince) McMahon was saying six months ago—that this guy could be the guy. And I understand that things change and, you know, the path, everything has changed."

WWE's most ardent viewers have been taking note of Theory's booking as he had the most powerful briefcase in his arsenal prior to last Monday and many were disappointed in him deciding to use it on the U.S. Title.

But in the world of kayfabe, it makes absolute sense since going after the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship held by Roman Reigns is a near impossibility due to his Bloodline faction closely following him everywhere he goes.

Despite Theory having the Money in the Bank briefcase, the threat of him ever taking the title from Reigns is extremely limited at this point.

Graves did offer WWE fans, and Theory's by extension, some consolation, however.

"Let it play out. Austin Theory didn't get fired. Austin Theory didn't get beaten and thrown into a dumpster and pushed off the stage. Austin Theory didn't have a limousine explode ... If Theory doesn't do something massive between now and Survivor Series, maybe it's time to worry," he said.

Based on WWE's current trajectory with factions, there is a chance that he gets inserted into the storyline involving former "The Way" stablemates Johnny Gargano and Dexter Lumis going after The Miz.

Reforming their old faction could be one course of action for Theory and turn him face instantly, but the chances of him teaming up with The Miz to even things out against Gargano and Lumis is also just as likely.

WWE has gold on its hands with Theory, and while he does have the makings of a top-tier pro wrestling star, what the promotion does next with him will shape his future in the business.