WWE Star Teases Major Character Change
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
An Austin Theory character change could be happening soon. The WWE star has been a heel for his entire main roster run, which started four years ago.
For a long time, Theory was presented as a top star. He was a protege of Vince McMahon and a two-time United States Champion.
Austin Theory Hints At Babyface Turn
The most significant hint of a turn came during the June 9th taping of WWE Main Event. Theory faced Dragon Lee in a singles match.
After the match ended, Lee offered Theory a handshake as a sign of respect. This is a common practice for a babyface competitor.
Instead of his usual heelish dismissal, Theory acknowledged the gesture. He did not shake the hand but showed a moment of consideration before leaving the ring.
This act was a major departure from his established on-screen character. It is the clearest sign that a turn is being considered for the former champion.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - OCTOBER 11: A WWE logo is shown on a screen before a WWE news conference at T-Mobile Arena on October 11, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. It was announced that WWE...
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - OCTOBER 11: A WWE logo is shown on a screen before a WWE news conference at T-Mobile Arena on October 11, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. It was announced that WWE wrestler Braun Strowman will face heavyweight boxer Tyson Fury and WWE champion Brock Lesnar will take on former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez at the WWE's Crown Jewel event at Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on October 31. More
A-Town Down Under In Turmoil
Further evidence points to issues within his tag team, A-Town Down Under. Theory has been seen arguing with his partner, Grayson Waller, on recent episodes of WWE Raw.
This on-screen friction often precedes the breakup of a tag team. Such a split is a classic storytelling method used to turn one of the members into a babyface.
More news: WWE News: Steve Austin Reveals Real-Life Vince McMahon Confrontation
Grayson Waller Reacts To Theory's New Attitude
The moment between Theory and Dragon Lee did not go unnoticed by Waller. He took to social media to comment on his partner's actions.
Waller reacted sarcastically to the clip of Theory showing respect after a loss."Aww this is so respectful and nice to do after a loss," Waller wrote.
His comment highlights the break in their heel personas. The public post suggests the issues between the two are escalating, pointing toward an eventual split and a turn for Theory.
Babyface Austin Theory couldn't be any closer pic.twitter.com/xPt691esHC — Austin Theory Deserves Better (@AustinTheoryDB) June 12, 2025
Now, it should be noted that WWE has been teasing a split between the two stars for quite some time now. Whether WWE is getting closer remains to be seen.
For those who have followed Theory's career, they're hoping for some kind of change to help his career.
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