Monday night’s WWE Raw episode from Everett, Washington, proved to be a memorable one as the show packed its two-hour time slot with engaging storylines and exciting in-ring action. One storyline, in particular, stood out as the most emotionally charged of the night—the shocking breakup of The New Day.
The Celebrations turned agony for fans in no quick time as instead of appreciating Big E's long awaited return Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods had other plans.
This episode marked the tenth anniversary of The New Day, one of the most successful and beloved tag teams in WWE history. For weeks, there had been growing tension among the members of the group, Xavier Woods, Kofi Kingston, and Big E, and fans anticipated that a split was imminent. As WWE celebrated its tag team division, this storyline was designed to add emotional depth to the company’s broader focus on tag team wrestling. Many expected the tension to culminate in one member turning on Big E, possibly with a chair shot to solidify a new heel persona.
Big E’s Return and Unexpected Turn
Big E, who has been sidelined since March 2022 due to a serious neck injury, made his long-awaited return to television during this Raw episode. The emotional weight of his return was palpable, but instead of the expected betrayal from one of his New Day brothers, fans were hit with a different surprise. Instead of turning on him, Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods blamed Big E for abandoning them in their time of need.
They accused him of being selfish for not returning to wrestle despite his injury and rejected his offer to be their manager. Kingston and Woods even brought up his broken neck, pointing to other wrestlers like "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, who returned to the ring after a similar injury. The segment left fans in shock and sadness, reminiscent of the "Undertaker-lost-his-streak" level of disbelief. The crowd’s reaction highlighted just how deeply invested WWE fans are in the New Day’s story, with the sudden turn leaving many heartbroken.
A Shocking Fallout
The segment unfolded with Big E trying to mend the rift between himself and his former teammates. He reflected on the group's past, recalling how Kingston and Woods supported him during his injury and how they had been by his side when he was at his lowest. However, instead of reconciliation, Kingston and Woods tore into him, expressing anger over his delayed return and the timing of his offer to join them again.
Kingston, in particular, expressed frustration by even referencing Big E’s injury, remarking, "He had so much to do with the foundation of The New Day and what people think of when they think of The New Day." Despite these words, there was no sign of reconciliation, and as Big E stepped out of the ring, asking if this was the end of their friendship, Kingston and Woods ignored him, embracing each other instead.
Big E’s Future in WWE
While Big E’s in-ring return remains uncertain, he has been active with WWE behind the scenes. The fan-favorite superstar has been a great ambassador for the company, hosting various pre- and post-show events. In a recent interview, Big E hinted at hope for a future return, stating, "When I am cleared," signaling his positive outlook on eventually getting back into the ring. Though his future in the ring remains unclear, his impact on WWE and the New Day legacy is undeniable.
WWE’s Emotional Swerve
The New Day’s breakup came as a major shock to fans, as many expected Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods to be the ones to part ways, with Big E being the glue that held them together. Instead, WWE pulled off a surprising twist, with the emotional departure being attributed to Big E’s absence. The move shocked fans but also added to the emotional depth of the storyline, leaving everyone eagerly awaiting what’s next for the beloved trio.