TJ Wilson: Bayley Changed The Culture, The Business Is Lucky To Have Her
TJ Wilson has love for Bayley.
Ten years ago, Bayley and Sasha Banks (Mercedes Mone in AEW) changed the game at NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn with their woman’s match that ushered in a new era of women’s wrestling in the United States and on national television.
Appearing on Counted Out with Mike and Tyler, WWE producer TJ Wilson explained how Bayley has continued to change the game behind the scenes.
“She is one of my favorites, and she knows that. I always say that Bayley changed the culture. Whether that’s entirely accurate or not, I don’t care. I give her that label. I was around at time when the women might watch the other women’s matches on the show and just dog it backstage. I used to do that kind of stuff, but I would try to be funny. My goal was, we’re on the road at the time, we’re supposed to be at the monitor and watch the show, and when you’re on a 12-day European tour, it gets monotonous, so to break that up, I would do my commentary. I have seen a lot of talent in general, but in the women’s division years ago where they maybe weren’t so uplifting of each other. I understand there is only one spot at that time, and you’re all climbing for that one match, and if you’re not in that match, you probably feel a way, and those feelings come out when you’re watching the match you want. I understand where it came from, but Bayley would be at shows she wasn’t booked at and before a woman’s match, she’s hugging girls before they go out and cheering them on. What I like about her is she’s just smart. She can read a room. If she had a superpower, it would be that. She’s asked to sit with me on the headset a couple of times. She’s able to read the room whenever she’s asked, and it’s worked out. She wants to figure out every aspect of this. She’s on this constant quest to understand every aspect of this business and to keep giving back. It’s awesome. She’s incredible. The wrestling business is lucky to have Bayley,” he said.
Fans can find Mercedes’ comments on her best friend by clicking here.
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