In the past week, the pro wrestling world has learned that Vince McMahon no longer has the final say regarding WWE creative. Following WWE and UFC merging to form TKO Group Holdings, Ari Emanuel decided that Paul “Triple H” Levesque should be allowed to do the job that he has been given, WWE Chief Content Officer, without the interference of McMahon. Levesque’s influence has been noticeable over the last few weeks, with his beloved NXT getting an over-the-top episode head-to-head with AEW featuring John Cena, Undertaker, Cody Rhodes, LA Knight, and more.
Fightful reports that if you have enjoyed the new WWE creative direction, strap in because there is more of it coming. Some of the changes fans have been treated to include talents returning to TV, long-signed stars finally making their debuts, various cameos, women getting more TV time, and longer matches. WWE sources they spoke with indicated that the changes seemed to have happened “overnight” and have been welcomed with open arms. Prior to Levesque firmly taking control of creative again, McMahon’s presence had been felt on the product. Notably, which talents were and were not featured on TV were pointed to as something he had sway over.
Recent matches like Ivar vs Kofi Kingston, Ricochet vs. Shinsuke Nakamura, and Gunther vs. Bronson Reed were pointed to as examples of Levesque establishing the importance of in-ring action on WWE Raw. One writer they spoke with said that adjustments have freshened up the product and relaxed the creative process now that Raw has a wider pool of talent they can work with.
It would appear that the same can be said for WWE NXT, which continued to feature main roster talent on last night’s show. WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Chelsea Green and Piper Niven, Natalya, Teagan Nox, Shotzi, and WWE NXT North American Champion Dominik Mysterio all appeared on last night’s show.
Haus of Wrestling has partnered with Inside The Ropes to present An Afternoon With Kevin Nash And Sean Waltman on November 25 at Joe’s Live in Rosemont, IL, ten minutes from the All-State Arena. Tickets are now available at JoesLiveRosemont.com.