"Batista Critiques WWE: 'Millions Lost' by Disbanding The Hurt Business"

 

Dave Bautista, better known as Batista, recently expressed his views on WWE's handling of The Hurt Business, a faction he believes had the potential to generate significant revenue and fan engagement. The Hurt Business, consisting of Bobby Lashley, MVP, Shelton Benjamin, and Cedric Alexander, captivated audiences with their dominant presence and compelling storylines. However, WWE's decision to disband the group prematurely has left many, including Batista, feeling that a golden opportunity was missed.

### The Rise of The Hurt Business

"Batista Critiques WWE: 'Millions Lost' by Disbanding The Hurt Business"

The Hurt Business was formed during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, providing a much-needed boost to WWE programming. Their synergy and charisma resonated with fans, quickly making them one of the most talked-about factions in recent memory. Bobby Lashley’s dominant WWE Championship reign, backed by the strategic acumen of MVP, showcased the group’s potential to carry main event storylines. Shelton Benjamin and Cedric Alexander added depth, bringing their unique styles and backgrounds to the faction.

### Batista’s Perspective

Batista, a WWE legend and Hollywood star, has never shied away from expressing his opinions about the wrestling industry. In a recent interview, he pointed out that WWE "left a lot of money on the table" by dismantling The Hurt Business. Batista emphasized that the faction had the right mix of talent, charisma, and storyline potential to be a long-term draw for the company. He argued that WWE missed out on various merchandising opportunities, pay-per-view main events, and fan engagement that The Hurt Business could have continued to generate.

### Missed Opportunities

"Batista Critiques WWE: 'Millions Lost' by Disbanding The Hurt Business"

One of the critical points Batista highlighted was the potential for The Hurt Business to become a central storyline across WWE’s multiple brands. The faction could have been instrumental in attracting a more diverse audience, showcasing African American talent in a prominent and positive light. Merchandise sales, including t-shirts, action figures, and other memorabilia, could have seen a significant boost with sustained fan interest.

Additionally, Batista noted that The Hurt Business had the potential to create compelling rivalries with other top factions and superstars. Prolonging their storylines could have led to memorable matches and moments that would be replayed for years. By cutting their storyline short, WWE not only disappointed fans but also undermined the momentum the group had built.

### Fan Reaction

The WWE Universe was vocal about their disappointment when The Hurt Business was disbanded. Social media platforms were flooded with fans expressing their frustration and confusion over WWE’s decision. Many felt that The Hurt Business was one of the few highlights during the pandemic era of wrestling, providing consistent entertainment and a sense of continuity.

### The Future of WWE Factions

Batista’s critique highlights a broader issue within WWE’s creative direction regarding factions and long-term storytelling. While WWE has a history of creating iconic groups like D-Generation X, The Shield, and The New Day, the premature breakup of The Hurt Business serves as a cautionary tale. For factions to reach their full potential, they need time to develop, allowing fans to emotionally invest in their journey.

### Conclusion

"Batista Critiques WWE: 'Millions Lost' by Disbanding The Hurt Business"

In conclusion, Batista's remarks about WWE leaving money on the table with The Hurt Business resonate with many fans and industry insiders. The faction had the ingredients to be a major draw for WWE, both financially and creatively. As WWE moves forward, the hope is that the company learns from this and gives future factions the opportunity to thrive and fully realize their potential. The legacy of The Hurt Business, though short-lived, serves as a reminder of what could have been, and what might still be possible with the right vision and commitment to storytelling.