The world of WWE was rocked yet again when it was announced on April 3rd that the company was being acquired by UFC parent company Endeavor and would be merged with UFC to form a new $21+ billion entity.
Vince McMahon, who returned to the company in January in order to help facilitate a sale, will serve as Executive Chairman of the Board of the new corporation. While the company has remained insistent that McMahon’s return was solely in order to facilitate business negotiations and that Triple H would remain in creative control as Chief Content Officer, McMahon has seemingly been gaining influence in recent weeks, and was seen on headsets at WrestleMania 39.
Despite Triple H insisting that things were “business as usual” in a talent meeting prior to Raw, McMahon was reportedly back in charge at the show, making numerous last-minute changes and staying in Gorilla position all night. His involvement has caused a drastic shift in talent morale, sending the mood backstage into a tailspin.
An update from Fightful Select provided details on the changes that were made to the show, including scrapping two women’s triple threat matches in favor of a tag title contender’s match and Bayley not accompanying Damage CTRL as originally planned.
The report notes that numerous talent were disappointed at the changes; while some of the changes weren’t believed to be creatively bad, the dishonesty surrounding the situation has come as quite a blow. Those in the women’s division were said to be particularly frustrated at the last-minute upheaval.
Fightful Select also states that they spoke to two talent who are “likely to request their releases” if things continue in this direction, with one of the talents being near the top of the card. Another talent told Fightful they’d likely just ride out their deal no matter what. According to the report, multiple talent are “exploring their options” in the event that McMahon continues to be more involved.
Bayley Sent Cryptic Message Teasing WWE Departure
While there is no word on which two talents are likely to request their releases, the news comes shortly after Bayley posted a message on social media leading many to wonder about her future with the company. Following her loss at WrestleMania 39, she posted the following:
“And sometimes the most romantic love story comes to an end. Bye”
Her name has been trending on Twitter today, with many top stars reaching out in support of her. One such name was WWE Hall of Famer Alundra Blayze, who said the star deserves “so much more.”
Bayley was last in action on night one of WrestleMania 39, teaming with Damage CTRL members Dakota Kai and IYO SKY to take on Becky Lynch, Trish Stratus, and Lita. In the end, Becky Lynch pinned Bayley to secure the victory for her team.