Chris Graham: Nice knowin’ ya, Mr. Swagger

Jack Swagger’s arrest late Tuesday for DUI and possession of marijuana couldn’t have come at a worse time – for Swagger or WWE.

Just two nights earlier, Swagger was blessed by WWE as the winner of the Elimination Chamber match at the pay-per-view of the same name with the stipulated shot at the World Heavyweight Title at WrestleMania 29 as his reward.

This opportunity came for Swagger after several months of being off TV following a string of losses in the mid-card that had some wondering if Swagger was being prepped for a release.

Instead, he came back with a major push, and then … this.

Swagger was pulled over for speeding after leaving the “Smackdown” tapings in Biloxi, Miss.

Two nights after winning the name match at a WWE pay-per-view, and with it a coveted shot at a world title on the biggest wrestling show of the year, Swagger lost his head.

WWE, in a terse statement, said simply that “Mr. Swagger is responsible for his own personal actions.”

The idea floating around on the wrestling blogosphere that there won’t be repercussions for Swagger is hard to figure. No way Vince McMahon, for our hometown readers a Fishburne Military School alum, is going to tolerate this transgression and the resulting bad publicity for his company.

As quickly as WWE blessed Swagger with the win at Elimination Chamber, it can defrock the man of his World Title shot just as quickly.

Don’t be surprised if you see Swagger’s title shot at ‘Mania put up for grabs next week on “Smackdown,” in much the same manner that John Cena is being forced to defend his main-event slot at WM29 on “Raw” next week against C.M. Punk.

Chris Jericho seems a logical choice to replace Swagger in the title match against champ Alberto Del Rio.

Actually, Jericho-Del Rio is much, much more worthy of the setting at WrestleMania than Swagger-Del Rio would be.

In pushing Swagger off the event, McMahon would be sending a message to his once and future budding star and other talents in the locker room.

Even a fleeting moment of ignorance on your part will not be tolerated.