Austin Theory believes his recent experiences against names like Seth Rollins and Bobby Lashley have made him a more credible threat to Roman Reigns in the future.
Austin Theory did have the Money in the Bank briefcase that he could have used at any time to try and become the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion. However, Austin ultimately decided not to use his briefcase to try and win the Universal Championship as he instead cashed in on Seth Rollins in a failed effort to become WWE United States Champion.
Theory would later explain that he believes cashing in on Roman Reigns was an impossible task for him at the time.
In the months since then, Theory would find his way back to the United States Championship and earn victories over names such as Seth Rollins and Bobby Lashley.
Speaking with Sean Ross Sapp ahead of the 2023 WWE Royal Rumble event, Theory would say that he felt as though he had a better shot in the Royal Rumble after elevating himself over the last year.
"Absolutely. I’m definitely in an elevated position now. Last year, I was figuring myself out and trying to figure out my ranks, especially coming in at number three. Being able to last over 20 minutes, though, I wasn’t too upset with that being my first Royal Rumble. But definitely, this year, taking advantage of everything that I’ve figured out, strategy-wise, for the Royal Rumble," he said.
Furthermore, Theory says his recent victories have made him more confident in his abilities and he now believes he is a more credible threat to Roman Reigns in the future.
"When you look at somebody like Bobby Lashley, and you look at somebody like Seth Freakin' Rollins, they've done it all they really have, but I think me being in the ring with them and me having that victory over both of them in different types of matches, it only helps me catapult myself to being a really fighting contender for that Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. I think it's definitely a different man now that Roman Reigns has to deal with," he said.
Recently, WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H remarked that Austin Theory has all the potential to go as far as he wants in the wrestling world. Fans can read his comments here.
Austin Theory will be in for a great test as he becomes the first person to defend the WWE United States Championship inside of the hellish Elimination Chamber structure.
Fightful will have full coverage of WWE Elimination Chamber 2023 as it airs on Saturday, February 18 on Peacock.
