Danhausens WWE debut at Elimination Chamber generated plenty of reaction from fans, but a new backstage update reveals how people inside the company viewed the situation after the mixed reception. The former AEW star made his surprise debut during the February 28, 2026 Elimination Chamber event in Chicago when WWE revealed the mysterious crate that had been teased during the show. When the moment finally arrived, Danhausen burst out of the crate alongside a group of devilish dancers. While the reveal was meant to be a major surprise, the reaction inside the United Center and across social media was far from enthusiastic. Many fans criticized the segment and questioned why Danhausen had been positioned as the payoff to the crate storyline. Despite the negative response from viewers, a new report suggests that WWE officials were more focused on how Danhausen handled the situation afterward. According to Fightful Select, several people within WWE were actually pleased with how quickly Danhausen adjusted following the debut. The report noted that many in the company were fully aware that the reveal did not land the way it was intended. Those within WWE reportedly acknowledged that the debut segment itself was considered a flop. However, sources said Danhausen remained professional and handled the aftermath well. The report also stated that his reaction behind the scenes impressed people internally, as he was not shaken by the criticism and responded positively despite the rough start. Danhausens debut came just months after AEW quietly dropped him from the company following the fallout surrounding CM Punks departure. The two performers have long been close friends, which added another layer of interest to his WWE arrival in Chicago. Although the debut may not have gone according to plan, WWE appears encouraged by how Danhausen handled the situation behind the scenes as he begins his run with the company. Do you think WWE can turn Danhausens debut around after the rough start at Elimination Chamber? Let us know your thoughts and leave your feedback in the comments. G Add as a preferred source on Google
