WWE News: Feud with CM Punk Would Save Struggling Lord Tensai Character

After an extremely slow start that featured more "Albert" chants than anything else, the WWE Universe has started to embrace Lord Tensai. A SummerSlam feud with CM Punk would give him the boost he needs to finally put his former characters in the past.

That storyline has been under consideration, according to Justin LaBar of WrestleZone.com. It seems like a logical advancement for both superstars, but the company probably wants to see how Punk's feud with Daniel Bryan plays out before making a final decision.

Tensai is portrayed by Matt Bloom, who's known by diehard wrestling fans as Prince Albert or A-Train during his previous run with the company. He recently returned from Japan with the new gimmick, and the early returns weren't promising.

Crowd reaction was basically nonexistent other than the aforementioned chants and nobody seemed impressed with his squash-match performances. It would have been easy for the WWE to pull the plug on him right there, but they decided to stick with the Tensai character.

Luckily, things have started to improve in recent weeks. He's been given the opportunity to pin major stars like John Cena and CM Punk—a clear sign that the creative team has big plans in mind for him moving forward.

His alliance with John Laurinaitis and their assault on Cena on last week's Raw allowed him to take another step by getting him the negative heel reaction that's been missing.

There's still a long way to go, but the Tensai character is moving in the right direction.

Feuding with Punk would be a perfect way to solidify his status as a main-event talent. Punk has asserted himself as the company's top guy since his hot streak began last summer, so entering a storyline with him is like an instant push.

Tensai has shown improved in-ring ability after eight years away. Working with Punk, who's one of the best performers in the company, will allow him to showcase all of his ability and that should earn him more respect from the fans.

There were plenty of moments since his hyped return last month where it looked like Tensai was doomed, but it appears the worst is behind him now. An appearance in one of the year's marquee matches would set him up for long-term success.

While things could always change over the next few months, giving Tensai a chance to headline with Punk is exactly what he needs. Otherwise, the character will remain on the brink.