WWE publicly announced a handful of talent releases on Wednesday, but behind the scenes more cutbacks were made. A number of WWE producers were laid off as part of the cutbacks including names such as Fit Finlay, Billy Kidman, Sarah Stock, and Shane Helms.
Producers were reportedly furloughed and not outright released.
Helms appeared on Busted Open Radio, giving his thoughts on what transpired on Wednesday.
"I completely understand. Nobody is buying tickets, no live events, I understand cutting costs. We have to, as people, prepare for life once we get over this. I was being paid to sit at home and do nothing. That can only last so long. Do I wish it was different? Of course. I really loved that job. I would review scripts and give feedback, but other than that, there's really a lot that I wasn't able to do. Most of the producers they kept are the ones that live there and don't have to travel," he said.
When asked about the possibility of coming back, Helms said, "I believe there is and they told me that there was. We'll just have to see until it actually happens. That's my hope. I did some good things with them while I was there. The whole 'Winner Takes All' at WrestleMania 35 was my idea. I had some good stuff that I was doing. I'm personally very concerned that this whole thing lasts a lot longer than what we're being led to believe, as far as ticket paying audience being allowed back in buildings."
According to a report by Wrestling INC, furloughed employees were given an information packet that said the end date for the furlough in July 1.
Many have expressed their anger and disappointment at Vince McMahon over the releases, feeling he didn't need to make the cutbacks given WWE's financial state and pointing out that other companies in combat sports and sports entertainment.
Helms commented, "I don't think it was him behind the desk being maniacally evil. It was a tough decision. Vince loves being able to pay people and putting on this product. This industry exists because of the decisions he's made. This is a decision he had to make and I don't think he wanted to make it."
According to a WWE press release "The Company’s reductions of employee compensation and headcount result in an estimated monthly savings of $4 million." You can view the entire press release by clicking here.
If you use any of the quotes above, please give a h/t and link back to Fightful for the transcription.
