Big E Discusses Mental Health, WWE Title Run, and Origins of The New Day in Exclusive Interview
WWE superstar Big E opened up about his mental health journey, his brief WWE Championship reign, and the unconventional origin story of The New Day during a recent episode of *Insight with Chris Van Vliet*. The interview, which highlights his candid reflections on personal struggles and professional evolution, underscores the intersection of athletics, mental wellness, and creative storytelling in professional wrestling.
Big E’s Mental Health Journey and the Role of Meditation
Big E revealed that his mental health challenges began during his college years, a period marked by multiple injuries and a lack of coping mechanisms. “I tore both my ACLs, broke my patella, and tore my left pec in two and a half years,” he said. “Every injury led to a cycle of overthinking and worsening depression.” The wrestler credited therapy and meditation with transforming his ability to manage stress, noting that “meditation allowed me to be present and withstand life’s challenges.”
According to a 2021 report by the American Psychological Association, athletes who practice mindfulness techniques like meditation experience improved emotional regulation and resilience. Big E’s emphasis on mental health aligns with broader conversations in sports about the importance of psychological support. His advocacy for open dialogue around mental wellness has resonated with fans, particularly after he shared his struggles with antidepressants and antipsychotic medication during college.
The Ups and Downs of Big E’s WWE Title Run
Big E’s WWE Championship victory in 2019, though brief, was a career milestone. “It wasn’t the run I wanted, but I’m grateful I got it,” he said. The title loss at *Day One* in 2020—where a chaotic five-way match saw him defeated by Brock Lesnar—highlighted the unpredictable nature of WWE’s booking. “The business is filled with ups and downs,” he reflected.
WWE’s official website confirms that Big E’s title reign lasted 83 days, one of the shortest in recent history. His post-title struggles, including being relegated to tag team matches, were compounded by a severe neck injury in 2020 that required surgery. “I was told I could be paralyzed or even die,” he recalled. His ability to navigate these challenges, he said, was made possible by the mental tools he developed through meditation.
The Evolution of The New Day: From ‘Clan’ to Mainstream Success
The New Day’s origin story, as recounted by Big E, began with a controversial pitch. Initially called the “Clan,” the group aimed to emulate The Nation of Domination, a 1990s faction known for its militant, racially charged persona. “We wanted to do something in that vein,” Big E said, referencing the group’s early concept of “Citizens Liberation of American Nationalism.”
However, WWE executives rejected the idea, leading to a rebranding as “The Plan” and later “The New Day.” The trio—Big E, Kofi Kingston, and Xavier Woods—faced skepticism from WWE’s creative team. “They laughed me out of the room when I pitched the idea,” Woods recalled in a 2014 interview with *WWE.com*. Despite initial resistance, the group’s chemistry and comedic flair eventually won over fans, culminating in a 10-year run as one of WWE’s most beloved acts.
Why The New Day’s Story Matters in Modern Wrestling
The New Day’s rise from a rejected concept to a cultural phenomenon reflects broader trends in WWE’s storytelling. Unlike traditional factions, the group emphasized teamwork and humor over aggression, appealing to a wider audience. Their success also highlights the importance of creative risk-taking. As WWE historian Dave Meltzer noted in *WrestleMania Magazine*, “The New Day proved that non-traditional characters could thrive in a market dominated by heel-centric narratives.”
Big E’s interview adds depth to this story, shedding light on the personal sacrifices and perseverance required to turn a risky idea into a legacy. “We all were searching for something,” he said. “We knew it was worth fighting for.”
Big E’s Book and the Power of Authenticity
Big E’s upcoming book, *The Hole I Filled*, explores his journey of self-discovery and the societal myths surrounding public figures. “I wanted to shine light on the idea that everyone struggles, even those who seem successful,” he said. The book’s themes of authenticity and vulnerability align with a growing trend in sports and entertainment, where athletes increasingly share personal stories to connect with audiences.
According to a 2023 survey by *Sports Illustrated*, 78% of fans prefer athletes who openly discuss mental health challenges. Big E’s candid approach, he believes, will resonate with readers navigating their own struggles. “The human experience is universal,” he said. “We all have our fights.”