WWE News: Legend reveals reason behind hate for Kofi Kingston as WWE Champion
What's the story?
On a recent edition of Busted Open Radio, WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry weighed in with his two cents on the hate and criticism that certain sections of the professional wrestling community have been directing toward WWE Champion Kofi Kingston as of late.
Addressing the same, Henry asserted that most people directing negativity toward Kingston are "size-ist", and don't really believe a wrestler can contend unless he's big and/or a giant monster sort of character.
Additionally, Henry indicated that Kingston can do whatever he wants as champion; as opposed to pro wrestling legend Jim Ross' recent comments, that Kingston ought to turn into a more serious on-screen character as WWE Champion.
In case you didn't know...
Following Kofi Kingston winning the WWE Championship for the very first time in his career, at WrestleMania 35; certain pro wrestling personalities such as veteran "Superstar" Billy Graham have strongly criticized the New Day member being booked as WWE Champion.
In fact, Graham opined that Kingston holding the WWE Championship is a joke, and that the New Day member ought to take steroids in order to fit the mold of a more believable wrestling champion.
On the other hand, former WWE announcer and current AEW personality Jim Ross, recently noted that Kingston needs to tone down the pancake-throwing, smiling persona and instead, start acting in a more serious manner on-screen in order to be taken seriously as WWE Champion.
The heart of the matter
Mark Henry addressed the criticism being aimed at Kofi Kingston, and stated --
"Two things that stick out is that most people are "size-ist"...They worry about what size you are. Is he big enough to contend? If he's not a big giant monster, I can't get behind him, I can't believe him as being unbeatable." (H/T Sportskeeda for the transcription)
Furthermore, Henry explained that Kingston dancing and throwing pancakes whilst holding the prestigious WWE Championship, mustn't really trivialize the fact that he is a great performer.
Moreover, Henry alluded that perceived lack of seriousness in Kingston's on-screen character doesn't diminish the fact that he is an intellectual stalwart, a dominant athlete, and someone whom the fans want to support.
Henry continued that Kingston is an excellent champion, and he always knew this was a possibility if the latter would be given a chance to shine as a top titleholder.
What's next?
Kofi Kingston is presently set to defend his WWE Championship against Kevin Owens at the Money in the Bank PPV on May 19th.
Meanwhile, the WWE Universe continues to support Kingston after his meteoric rise to the top of the WWE food chain in the 2019 calendar year.
What are your thoughts on Mark Henry's statements? Sound off!