Mr. Iguana’s WWE Rise Sparks Debate: Viral Gimmick or Short-Term Pop?

Mr. Iguana’s WWE Rise Sparks Debate: Viral Gimmick or Short-Term Pop?

Mr. Iguana is turning heads in WWE after a standout performance at the WWE x AAA Worlds Collide event. His quirky character, electric energy, and unexpected fan response have made him the surprise breakout of the night. But as buzz builds, some wrestling insiders are urging caution.

With a WWE deal reportedly finalized and an NXT debut already behind him, Iguana is riding a wave of popularity. Yet, according to Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, the hype may be a double-edged sword.

“He got a big reaction from the WWE audience. But even in Mexico, he’s not some giant star. There’s a cuteness to the gimmick… but it may be one of those things that’s hot for a week and then fades.”

Meltzer and co-host Garrett Gonzales also shed light on the bizarre origins of the character and WWE’s backstage scramble to shape the narrative.

“Where the name comes from, the doll, the way WWE is spinning it—he even had to beg them to take down an honest interview. That’s when things got messy.”

According to Meltzer, Shawn Michaels allegedly told Iguana, “You’re not going to developmental, but I’ll give you money.” That quote—leaked from the now-removed interview—sparked internal discomfort.

Despite the chaos, WWE is going full steam ahead with the Mr. Iguana brand. His merch is moving. His social numbers are climbing. But is this surge sustainable?

“It’s like Hiromu Takahashi and the cat in Japan—it worked until it didn’t,” Meltzer said. “They’re all-in on the gimmick. Maybe it becomes a merch machine… or maybe it doesn’t.”

Meltzer did credit the character for standing out in today’s ultra-competitive environment:

“Everyone in wrestling now has in-ring ability. But that’s not enough anymore. What matters is uniqueness—and Iguana has that.”

In an era where virality drives booking, Mr. Iguana may be the latest test of whether WWE can balance novelty with longevity.

Do you think Mr. Iguana is the next breakout star—or just a short-lived attraction? Share your thoughts in the comments below!