WWE superstar Akira Tozawa recently shared an emotional message on social media after he failed to make it into the men's Royal Rumble match. Tozawa, who had prepared for his moment at the event, was attacked by Carmelo Hayes before he could even enter the ring for the prestigious battle royal.
In light of the unfortunate circumstances, WWE’s Chief Content Officer, Paul 'Triple H' Levesque, made a surprising decision to replace Tozawa in the match. The replacement for the Japanese star was none other than popular Twitch streamer IShowSpeed.
Tozawa Reflects on His Royal Rumble Experience
Addressing the event on X (formerly Twitter), Tozawa expressed his disappointment but also looked ahead with determination. He wrote, “8 years since I came to WWE. This was my first time making an entrance at the Royal Rumble. Next year, I want to take even one step closer to the ring! Thank you!”
Triple H and IShowSpeed’s Backstage Conversation
WWE also released a video showing the backstage interaction between Triple H and IShowSpeed. In the footage, Triple H explains that the company needed a replacement for Tozawa in the Royal Rumble match. Upon spotting Speed, Triple H encouraged the famous streamer to enter the battle royal. Although initially surprised by the decision, Speed eventually made his way to the ring.
IShowSpeed’s Unexpected Royal Rumble Moment
IShowSpeed’s Royal Rumble debut started off with an impressive moment. The streamer managed to eliminate the 149.6 kg Otis by sending him flying over the top rope. Excited by the elimination, Speed mimicked the famous "Siu" celebration often used by football icon Cristiano Ronaldo. However, Speed’s success was short-lived as WWE star Bron Breakker delivered a spear that sent him crashing to the mat before tossing him over the top rope.
In a dramatic turn of events, Otis caught Speed to break his fall, but the chaos continued as Otis launched Speed over the announcers’ desk.
IShowSpeed Reflects on His Rumble Experience
After his elimination, IShowSpeed spoke backstage to a WWE interviewer, visibly in pain and relying on crutches. Wearing a neck brace, he was asked to compare the brutality of a Spear from Bron Breakker to an RKO from Randy Orton.
“Did you just ask me, does it hurt, or does it hurt? They hurt. It hurt. If that’s what the people want to hear. They both hurt. I can’t even walk,” Speed candidly replied, showing the physical toll of his unexpected Royal Rumble appearance.