Kurt Angle has carved out a career as one of wrestling’s premier talents, a rare breed who is a respected veteran among his peers. Jason Jordan is very much still finding his feet, but WWE are intent on having him follow a similar career trajectory to his kayfabe dad. This then begs the question: Is it wise for WWE to attempt to make Jason Jordan the new Kurt Angle?
Before we can answer such a question, let’s take a look at some of the defining features that made “The Olympic Hero” stand out in the first place. Does Jordan share any of these traits?
Legit wrestling background?
While Jason Jordan’s grappling resume isn’t as padded as Kurt’s, the young Illinois native does boast a decorated career on the mat. Amateur wrestling since the age of seven, Jason would go on to grapple in high school while also competing in baseball and American football – his three-sport athlete status helped to improve his all-around athletic ability and explosiveness in combat situations.
Jordan would soon join the Indiana University wrestling team, entering such prestigious tourneys as the Big Ten Conference. He would eventually qualify for the NCAA Division 1 Tournament, an event which only accepts the most elite wrestlers. This is not a man to be trifled with!
With the ever looming popularity of MMA, a pro wrestler having a decorated background in one of the hardest forms of martial arts is always going to be a plus point to a casual viewer. With his all too real fighting skills, Jason Jordan might be among the pound-for-pound toughest people in WWE, something Kurt can certainly relate to.
Windbag heel tendencies?
Upon introduction, Angle’s character was essentially an uncool heel who genuinely believed he was the good guy – sound familiar? Kurt raised the ire of audiences with his eccentric behaviour and windbag nature, crafting a character that would have fit right in with the Hogans and Savages of the previous era. (Check out the scene where Kurt gives The Undertaker a scooter to replace his ruined motorcycle for some classic heel Angle shenanigans).
As WWE continue the slow building Jason Jordan heel turn, the former American Alpha star has been turning in some inspired performances as the over-entitled complainer character. Like Kurt, this character trait draws even more heat due to the fact that most fans know Jason Jordan is a real fighter.
The over-the-top facial expressions that Jordan displays also have a lot in common with those of the gold medallist – compare Jordan’s “post-suplex” face with that of Kurt’s “post-straps down” routine – both scream like wild men in a manner that betrays their often wholesome characters.
Marketability?
Similar to the “American Hero”, Jason has an audience friendly, handsome appearance that would be equally suited to a morning talk show or some cheesy commercial. The ever growing popularity of sport and fitness could help bring some high profile extra-curricular gigs JJ’s way, considering his high school and collegiate sporting background.
Angle’s “son” also holds the distinction of having a bachelor’s degree in biology, which shows he could be a real role model to young wrestling fans.
Everybody loves an inspirational story – Jordan’s two brothers are currently serving time in prison, something which only serves to fan the flames of Jason’s desire to succeed in life. Jordan hasn’t let his family troubles influence his own path, which is commendable in itself.
Great matches?
Naturally fluid in the ring, Jason has impressed in many high calibre in-ring performances. From his Raw battles with John Cena and Roman Reigns, to his NXT tag team tenure with Chad Gable, the guy has proved time and time again that he is capable of holding his end of the bargain in a big match. If he is anything like dear old dad, then look for Jordan to improve his game at a supernatural rate over the next few years.
So, do I believe Jason Jordan could be the new Kurt Angle? No. Much like in Highlander, there can be only one! That being said, I do think WWE is steering young Jason towards the sea of success by casting him in such a similar role to that of Kurt.
Storylines with slow builds are something many WWE fans have wanted for years. Much like the proverbial fine wine, Jason Jordan’s heel turn has been allowed to simmer and age at its own pace. Many fans already boo him relentlessly to the point that when he finally does turn heel, look for JJ to draw some major heat and follow in his father’s footsteps.
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