Could WWE WrestleMania 40 be the first ever #MeatMania? Bronson Reed seems to think so, and I have to agree with him. Let’s take a look at how this all came about.
On January 20th, 2020, Big E uttered five words that would go on to generate a life of their own: “big meaty men slapping meat”. Whilst discussing his dream match on The New Day: Feel The Power podcast, he made the point that his favorite type of wrestling is when huge competitors face off.
This soundbite has become synonymous with Big E since and over the four years that have passed, the concept has taken on many forms.
Reed took to X after missing out on his opportunity to face Gunther at WrestleMania 40, losing to Sami Zayn in the outstanding gauntlet match on WWE Monday Night Raw.
There are some BIG brothers currently not on this year’s #WrestleMania
I think its time for @WWEBigE MEATY INVITATIONAL!
If you, the WWE universe want it, let your voice be heard!!!#MEATMANIA— BIG BRONSON REED (@BRONSONISHERE) March 13, 2024
This concept picked up traction very quickly, with multiple WWE superstars joining in the discussion and, seemingly, putting themselves forward for the meatiest match in ‘Mania history.
With Slim Jim getting in on the action, suggesting they’d be open to sponsoring such an event, this idea could become a reality at this year’s WrestleMania.
I’ve decided to take a look at some of the potential competitors and suggest a couple of ways this match could operate.
Honorable Mention: Big E
It wouldn’t be the meatiest match in wrestling history without the man who gave it mainstream traction. Big E, while still seemingly unfit to perform, should be included in this match in some way.
It would make sense to include Big E as a guest commentator for this, similar to the role that Titus O’Neil filled during the Intercontinental Championship Triple Threat match at WWE WrestleMania 39.
Of course, if the 12-time champion is fit ahead of ‘Mania, then it would be an incredibly wise decision to have him as a surprise entrant into the match. However, without wishing to raise expectations too high, the idea of Big E on commentary would be the way to go.
Potential #MeatMania Competitors
Bronson Reed
His inclusion in this match makes perfect sense. If WWE were to arrange this match and not include the man whose post sparked the #MeatMania movement, it would be bizarre. Possessing a combination of size, speed, and finesse, Reed is an excellent option to be one of the men showcasing what the big guys of WWE is all about.
‘Big’ Bronson Reed ultimately missed out on a huge home-town moment in Perth for WWE Elimination Chamber, so giving him this match would be an excellent reward for his dedication and patience. After all, his gimmick is literally that he is ‘BIG’, so putting him in the match would be a no-brainer.
Otis
The powerhouse of Alpha Academy belongs in this match. As one of the first men to respond to Reed’s initial suggestion, Otis should be involved in a “meaty invitational”.
He certainly fits the bill as a man with “a chest that extends” – in Big E’s own words – and would be a welcome addition to a multi-heavyweight clash. Seeing Otis hit ‘the Caterpillar’ on the other men in this match would be delightful, and allow him to showcase his ability in ways that he has otherwise been limited.
Ivar
I want to see wrestlemania XL go EXTRA LARGE! @WWEBigE meaty invitational…. Sign Me Up #MeatMania https://t.co/SXA9pFo4xc
— Ivar (@Ivar_WWE) March 13, 2024
Another nailed-on competitor in this #MeatMania match, Ivar also responded to Reed’s post and seemed to register his interest in taking part.
Weighing in at around 300 pounds, Ivar is deceptively athletic, with his trademark moonsault still shocking audiences every time he pulls it off. He would be a perfect addition to the match, throwing his weight around and catching his opponents by surprise with his dexterity.
Omos
We’re moving on to names that are not guaranteed but should take part. Firstly, the gargantuan Omos would be perfect for this event.
He hasn’t been seen on television much as of late, with his previous two televised matches being the Royal Rumble match and the Slim Jim Battle Royal, respectively. Mostly used as a special attraction, it would make sense to see Omos turn up for an invitational of sorts.
If this match were to be an honorary replacement for the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, then it would be logical to expect to see ‘The Nigerian Giant’ join the fray amongst the biggest of the bunch.
Bron Breakker
Ever since he officially signed a contract as a member of the WWE SmackDown roster, Bron Breakker has not had a clear story set out for him. He’s been the victor in a couple of squash matches with the likes of Xyon Quinn and Dante Chen, showcasing his power and prowess.
As one-half of the current NXT Tag Team Champions, he’s likely going to have to defend the belts alongside Baron Corbin at NXT: Stand and Deliver. If the two lose their tag straps, it would be the perfect opportunity to cement Breakker’s call-up and have him included in this match later in the weekend.
Breakker could similarly hit the ring to the Men’s Iron Survivor Match from NXT: Deadline 2023, hitting everyone in sight with devastating spears and clearing house. A strong showcase in a match like #MeatMania would be a brilliant introduction to a wider audience.
Oba Femi
Another NXT star that ought to be considered for a match of this kind, is the reigning NXT North American Champion. Oba Femi burst onto the scene on the “White and Gold” brand, winning the 2023 NXT Breakout tournament and taking the title away from Dragon Lee.
His hulking figure has become a staple on NXT programming over recent weeks and he has managed to put away the likes of Dragon Lee, Brooks Jensen, and Lexis King during his time there. However, if he needs a bigger challenge, then put him in this match.
Seeing Oba Femi square off against the likes of Bronson Reed, Omos, and others would be captivating. He’ll likely appear at Stand and Deliver also, but giving him the spotlight in this beefy bout would be an incredible decision.
Braun Strowman
Finally, a return that would be sure to generate a huge reaction. The ‘Monster Among Men’ hasn’t been seen since the May 1st, 2023 episode of WWE Monday Night Raw, after undergoing spinal fusion surgery.
He has been sharing updates on his health on X and updating his fans with workout videos and pictures, which seem to indicate he is closing in on a return.
A little better every day!!!! The Monsters coming Everyone!!!! pic.twitter.com/DKFBKGe9FM
— The Monster of all Monsters (@Adamscherr99) February 23, 2024
While nothing has been confirmed, a surprise appearance at the ‘Showcase of the Immortals’ in the #MeatMania match would be an excellent way to reintroduce Braun Strowman to WWE programming. Interactions with almost every man listed above would be historic and give fans of meaty melees their fix.
Possible Match Format:
It would be amazing to see this match take on the form of a battle royal, as mentioned earlier. Seeing all seven of these men in the ring at the same time would be nothing short of incredible, although the ring might need a bit of reinforcement!
Another potential stipulation could be making it into a gauntlet match, giving each competitor their time to shine without overshadowing anyone else. It would also allow the surprise appearances to get the reactions that they deserve from the Philadelphia crowd.
Do you want to see this match happen at WWE WrestleMania 40? I’d love nothing more than to see the “Big E Meaty Invitational” become an annual tradition for WWE.
We’ve seen this year that the power of social media is undeniable when it comes to WWE’s storytelling, so if Bronson Reed can get #MeatMania trending then anything is possible.
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