Is Paul Levesque’s Time as WWE’s Head Booker Nearing an End?
Read Time:4 Minute, 12 Second
When Paul Levesque took over WWE creative in July 2022, many viewed it as the beginning of a new era.
While the timing surprised many, few were shocked that he eventually inherited the role. As Vince McMahon’s son-in-law and longtime head of WWE’s developmental system, Levesque had long been viewed as the company’s creative successor.
Vince McMahon’s abrupt departure following the Janel Grant lawsuit shattered a TKO corporate framework designed to keep him in power. It instantly accelerated a transition that was previously expected to take years. The move, which followed severe allegations and intense pressure, effectively ended his decades-long control over WWE creative and business operations
Triple H Inherited a Strong Foundation
Levesque also inherited WWE at an ideal moment. The Bloodline storyline had already become one of the hottest angles in wrestling, Cody Rhodes had returned to WWE months earlier, and several major storylines were already in motion.
At the time, that approach made perfect sense. WWE was hotter than it had been in years, and there was little reason to drastically change course.
However, with the benefit of hindsight, one of the biggest criticisms of Levesque’s creative has been his perceived inability to consistently create fresh, compelling stories beyond the ones he inherited. Instead, critics argue that WWE has become too reliant on long-running feuds, repetitive matchups, and extending storylines well past their natural conclusion.
Perhaps no storyline has drawn more criticism than John Cena’s heel turn and retirement tour. While opinions remain divided, many fans believe what should have been one of the most memorable runs of Cena’s career has failed to live up to expectations.
Has WWE Creative Become Too Predictable?
While Levesque’s booking differs from Vince McMahon’s in several ways, there are still similarities in philosophy.
That shouldn’t come as a surprise. Levesque spent years working alongside McMahon, learning how WWE television was structured and produced. When TKO officially took control of WWE, continuity—not revolution—was likely the priority.
Even during the Black & Gold era of NXT, Levesque’s booking often leaned toward long-term storytelling rather than frequent creative risks. That philosophy has largely carried over to the main roster.
Whether fans enjoy that style is another conversation entirely.
Could Business Performance Put Creative Under Pressure?
Creative decisions are ultimately judged by business results.
A recent report from JP Morgan lowered its price target for TKO stock. It explicitly cites concerns over declining RAW viewership on Netflix and bubbling fan dissatisfaction with the creative product.
Ultimately, downward-trending business metrics would inevitably invite intense corporate scrutiny from TKO leadership. That would put pressure not just on Paul Levesque’s creative direction, but also raising questions about WWE President Nick Khan’s long-term corporate stewardship.
Who Could Replace Triple H?
If TKO ever decided to make a change, there are several names that would likely emerge as candidates.
Shawn Michaels is often mentioned because of his work leading NXT creative, although opinions on his booking remain mixed among the brand’s audience.
More recently, Jeremy Borash and The Undertaker have formed an acclaimed creative partnership helming WWE’s AAA Lucha Libre brand. While it’s difficult to determine who deserves credit for specific creative decisions, Borash has significantly more experience in wrestling creative roles. He would likely be viewed as the stronger candidate for a position of that magnitude.
Paul Heyman is another name frequently discussed, but reports indicate he is content anchoring high-profile storylines rather than subjecting himself to the exhausting grind of full-time booking.
For many insiders and fans, the strongest alternative is Brian Gewirtz. The former WWE Head Writer remains a vital force in wrestling creative through his work with The Rock. His dual mastery of WWE television structure and Hollywood production makes him an incredibly attractive option should TKO seek a fresh direction.
Outside the corporate umbrella, there are few realistic options. While legacy names like Eric Bischoff or Vince Russo dominate nostalgic social media debates, neither fits the profile of a modern, multi-billion dollar media conglomerate.
Should TKO Move On?
In my opinion, yes.
WWE doesn’t simply need a new head booker. It needs fresh creative voices capable of building original stars and compelling storylines rather than relying on ideas that have already run their course.
That said, wrestling changes incredibly fast.
Levesque still has plenty of time to change the narrative. Two years is an eternity in professional wrestling, and a handful of great storylines could completely reshape public perception of his creative tenure before WWE’s next round of television negotiations.
But if WWE’s creative stagnation continues while business indicators begin showing signs of decline, TKO may eventually have to ask a difficult question:
Is it time for someone else to lead WWE creative?
Happy
0 %
Sad
0 %
Excited
0 %
Sleepy
0 %
Angry
0 %
Surprise
0 %
About Post Author
