Two Major Storylines Are Gone Since The Triple H Era Of 205 Live

When the Cruiserweight Classic aired on the WWE Network, many fans were impressed at the pure talent that was showcased during the matches. While names such as Zack Sabre, Jr., Tajiri, Kota Ibushi, and Brian Kendrick were among the most popular and favorites to win the tournament, others such as Cedric Alexander, Lince Dorado, and Gran Metalik were able to showcase their skills in a way that demanded a higher level of recognition and respect from the crowd.

When former Impact Wrestling X Division Champion T.J. Perkins – known primarily in Impact as masked personalities Suicide and Manik – won the tournament and Cruiserweight Championship, it created a positive momentum for the main roster 205 Live debut. However, the focus went from good matches to storylines which fans just did not sink their teeth in. Even with talents such as Austin Aries, Neville, and Kalisto, the popularity did not significantly increase.

However, it looks like 205 Live may have turned the corner. On top of refocusing the show on the quality of matches aiming for a goal – to win the WWE Cruiserweight Championship in the tournament finals at the biggest stage of the year, WrestleMania – NXT names such as Hideo Itami, Roderick Strong, and Buddy Murphy are giving the division an extra boost. In addition, former Impact Wrestling X Division Champion Rockstar Spud, now known as Drave Maverick, is the General Manager, which further distinguishes the brand.

You can view former NXT Tag Team Champion Buddy Murphy’s journey to make the 205 Live roster below.

Buddy Murphy aims to compete on The Grandest Stage of Them All: WWE 205 Live, Feb. 13, 2018

Since Triple H has taken over the direction of 205 Live, two noticeable angles have been dropped from the brand. As reported on a recent edition of the Wrestling Observer Radio, WWE has dropped both Nia Jax being affiliated with the brand, as well as Goldust being on the brand as an advocate of Cedric Alexander.

It was also added that this direction would not have happened if Enzo Amore was not fired, and Vince McMahon would not have given it up to Triple H. Moreover, Vince would have wanted a more serious show if Enzo was still at the helm.

Seemingly, the reason why Jax is no longer involved is due to Enzo Amore being released from the company, and WWE finally having a direction with her character again heading to WrestleMania. However, with WWE dropping Goldust from the brand, the emphasis is clear to once again feature the talent affiliated with 205 Live en route to the tournament finals in New Orleans.

Follow Chris Featherstone on Twitter @chrisprolific and the Pancakes and Powerslams Show @cravewrestling.