CJ Perry Explains Why LGBTQ Angle with Liv Morgan Was Personally Meaningful

Speaking on Ring the Bell, Perry explained that the angle was crafted during a period when Paul Heyman had significant creative influence on Raw and was actively pushing for more layered stories for the womens division. She recalled that the plan was always designed to be a swerve, with the audience initially led to believe Liv Morgan was in love with Bobby Lashley before the reveal tied the story to Lana instead. She said the storyline wasnt just something she performed it was something she personally connected to.

Perry also revealed that Liv Morgan was not the only name considered for the angle. Creative had discussed multiple possibilities before settling on Liv, and Perry was open to any of them.

Behind the scenes, there were logistical reasons for why the story ultimately went in the direction it did. Sonya Deville (Daria) was already tied to a different longterm program on SmackDown, which shifted the decision.

Perry also acknowledged why Liv Morgan made sense from an audience connection standpoint.

When the storyline was quickly dropped, it sparked criticism online and confusion among fans. Perry didnt back away from the authenticity of her comments about identity, making it clear that her personal experiences shouldnt be erased just because of who she married. She added a direct message about identity erasure that shes continued to stand by.

While the angle didnt last, Perrys comments offer a rare look at how closely her real life intersected with her television character during that period and why the story meant more to her than it appeared on screen. Even years later, its clear this is one part of her WWE run she views with honesty and pride, regardless of how abruptly the company chose to move on from it.