WWE's Day 1 show saw an angle to set up a potential absence for former WWE Champion Drew McIntyre.
After McIntyre's win over Madcap Moss, McIntyre was taken out backstage in a segment by Moss and his partner Happy Corbin.
WWE's Twitter posted "@DMcIntyreWWE suffered a cervical neck strain with severe contusions. Upon further evaluation by medical staff he will have a follow-up with an orthopedic cervical specialist."
Fightful has learned that this angle is being used as a cover for a legit injury to Drew McIntyre, one that he's been dealing with for quite a while. We haven't heard of the specific injury or diagnosis, but that he's set to get it checked out, with the hope in the company that he won't be sidelined long-term.
As a result, WWE went with a longer match with Madcap Moss and Drew McIntyre, and had him involved in the post-match attack to help make him in defeat. We're also told Jeff Hardy's release threw a wrench into the creative plans.
This article first appeared on our premium service, Fightful Select. Subscribe to get exclusive news every day, and a half-dozen weekly podcasts.
To directly support us and our continuing breaking news, interviews, and the like, subscribe to FightfulSelect.com. You'll get exclusive news sent to you directly before anyone else, and dozens of podcasts monthly including Alex Pawlowski's Sour Graps, Sean Ross Sapp's Q&A, Retro Reviews and more
