Backstage Details On Original Plans For JC Mateo’s WWE Debut

JC Mateo reportedly entered WWE with plans for a stronger singles push, but his creative direction shifted behind the scenes. New details from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter shed light on how the former New Japan Pro-Wrestling and Ring of Honor standout was ultimately used on television before his release.

Mateo, previously known as Jeff Cobb, built a standing through runs in NJPW and ROH. During his time outside WWE, he captured titles including the NEVER Openweight Championship and the ROH World Television Championship.

According to Dave Meltzer, WWE initially viewed Mateo as a potential singles act who could work with several major names on the roster. However, plans reportedly changed after internal evaluations following his tryouts.

The report stated that creative direction eventually placed him in a supporting role within The MFTs faction alongside Solo Sikoa. While Mateo became “a face in the crowd of the MFTs,” the spotlight shifted to Tama Tonga, with Talla Tonga playing the monster role.

As a result, JC Mateo appeared less frequently in major storylines and did not receive the singles direction originally discussed. His television role gradually became more limited over time.

Mateo was later included in WWE’s post-WrestleMania 42 roster cuts announced on April 24.

JC Mateo and Tonga Loa have been moved to the alumni section of WWE’s official roster site. pic.twitter.com/5rWrTokAPa

— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) May 2, 2026