COVID-19 changed a lot for WWE, including Vince McMahon’s central focus, according to new reports.
On Thursday, June 11, 2020, Paul Heyman was relieved of his duties as WWE Raw Executive Director with the creative direction for both main roster shows now falling under the jurisdiction of Bruce Prichard.
According to a new report from Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the sudden shift in Direction from Vince McMahon stems from the fact that the global Coronavirus pandemic changed a lot of what Vince McMahon's focused was going to be for the foreseeable future with the forced shutdown and eventual bankruptcy of the XFL moving McMahon’s focus back onto the WWE side of his business affairs.
According to the report, Heyman being in charge of Raw with seen as a long-term move, but the internal mentality has shifted toward taking care of what is right in front of you rather than looking to the long-term future. It is also reported that Vince McMahon is frustrated with the new talent being pushed on Raw and not “getting over.” Young talent on the brand is reportedly concerned about the shift as Paul Heyman is known for putting an emphasis on the future.
Vince McMahon and Paul Heyman have a history of butting heads when both are in positions I'm creative, and it seems that bad history continues with this run for Heyman on the creative team. One source was reported by Meltzer as saying, “I am shocked it took this long. Everyone knew it was coming. Vince did not like Paul.”
As the story continues to develop, we will continue to report any and all updates.
There is even more news about this shake up on the initial reaction to it on our premium Fightful Select service. Subscribe to support our exclusive and independent coverage of professional wrestling. You'll get access to exclusive news, and dozens of additional podcasts.
