James Ellsworth is more over than Braun Strowman

Braun Strowman beat James Ellsworth
Courtesy: WWE

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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Until July of this year, few wrestling fans knew who the heck James Ellsworth was. He seemingly drew the short straw and was the first of many enhancement talents to face the monstrous Braun Strowman. The former Wyatt Family member destroyed Ellsworth in a matter of moments. But there was something about Ellsworth that resonated with fans.

The indy wrestler and promoter faded away as quickly as he arrived on the scene in WWE. But then in September, Ellsworth reappeared on SmackDown Live to team up with AJ Styles. But the Miz pounced and took out Ellsworth and I figured he would fade away again.

Ellsworth wins!
Courtesy: WWE

Then last week on SmackDown Live, Ellsworth PINNED Styles in a non-title match. Sure Dean Ambrose was the ref and made a fast count, but the win reignited the WWE Universe's admiration for the lovable loser. This week he competed for the championship. Not surprising, he did not win the belt but did win the match by disqualification. In the process, Ellsworth gained a whole new level of superstardom as a result. 

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Now consider this. Strowman destroyed Ellsworth three months ago. In that time he has received 0 championship matches. In fact, Strowman hasn't even had a non-title match. Something else to consider, Ellsworth has a new t-shirt in WWE Shop. Guess who doesn't? Yep Strowman. And as Ambrose pointed out, Ellsworth has more victories over AJ Styles than John Cena. It's mind boggling, but cool at the same time.

Ellsworth's hard work in the indies and being able to capitalize on that early popularity in WWE has changed his life. Congrats to him. Oh, and if you'd like to see Ellsworth in person, (and you live in the southeast Missouri, southern Illinois, western Kentucky area) head to Cape Championship Wrestling on Saturday, Oct. 29.