Not only is Kevin Owens just beginning a massive main event babyface run, but WWE is also giving him the freedom and power to do something that very few superstars ever receive.
According to Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated, Owens is "working without a script" and "off bullet points." As Barrasso notes, it's a clear sign that WWE has "tremendous faith" in the former Universal Champion.
Owens began a babyface run two weeks ago when he attacked Dolph Ziggler on the July 2 episode of SmackDown Live. But Owens' greatest moment yet as a babyface took place on last week's episode of SmackDown, when he cut an epic pipe bomb promo against the McMahon family - complaining about all the television time they take up.
When Shane McMahon tried interfering in the main event between Ziggler and Roman Reigns, Owens appeared and hit the SmackDown commissioner with a Stunner, putting a cherry on top of an incredible performance for the evening.
Related: Kevin Owens Calls SmackDown "The Most Liberating Experience" In His Career
WWE insider Brad Shepard reported that there are talks about having Owens and Shane O'Mac face off in a Steel Cage match at SummerSlam. That remains to be seen, of course, but it seems quite obvious that the two will be clashing at the Aug. 11 event in Toronto, Ontario.
Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio recently reported that WWE is planning to make Owens a 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin-like babyface. So far, so good. Owens has taken control of the microphone and continues to rebel against the villainous Shane McMahon authority figure. Simply allowing Owens to cut his own promos will go a long way in helping him become an Austin-caliber babyface.
What This Means
WWE has come under criticism for forcing their superstars to work unscripted promos, especially since they don't allow the wrestlers to be themselves. Owens has relished the opportunity to cut his own promos, and hopefully WWE will do the same for other superstars down the road.
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