WWE's Post-PLE Press Conferences May Be Getting Reformatted
One of the most noticeable changes during the initial days of the Triple H regime was the introduction of press conferences after premium live events. While holding a presser following a wrestling event isn't a new concept, it wasn't until the rise of AEW and their "Media Scrums" that it became popularized in North America—enough for WWE to want to jump on the bandwagon.
Today, a report from WrestleVotes states that WWE will soon move away from their media-friendly press conferences in favor of post-shows. This change is expected to take effect after this weekend's Clash at the Castle event. The report adds, "the possibility of media questions [is] still undetermined."
The ambiguity of what these altered plans could mean for WWE's press conference model has some fans concerned that WWE may be looking to scratch the whole concept of open questions from the media and public altogether. Overall, WWE's press conferences have received mostly positive feedback from the WWE Universe, as they typically serve as the backdrop for memorable or noteworthy moments.
Ranging from serious ones like Triple H speaking on former talent and addressing the Vince McMahon lawsuit, to the less serious ones like the iconic Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso "libations" press conference following Fastlane 2023.
Additional reports have indicated that these 'changes' might be only superficial. According to Mike Johnson of PWInsider, 'There does not appear to be any changes, so it may be they just shortened the title.'
WWE is currently accepting media applications through next month's SummerSlam PLE. However, WWE has not stated that a post-PLE press conference will be part of the scheduled SummerSlam-weekend media events.
This also wouldn't be the first time that WWE has made changes to their Press Conferences. Last year, it was reported by Brandon Thurston of Wrestlenomics that WWE would stop having press conferences after every single PLE. Instead, mostly save them for "The Big 5" and International events.
Former WWE on-air talent Matt Camp spoke bluntly about his former employer's use of press conferences earlier this year. According to the former host of WWE's The Bump, Camp says that WWE isn't interested in hard-hitting questions from the media at post-event press conferences. Instead, they would rather fans who "want to be part of the show"
"They want fans in there, they want people that want to be part of the show, that don’t want to mess with their part of the show. The press conference is part of the show ... but they want this just to be an addendum to the end of the show, we wrap things up and we let people speak a little bit and show their excitement and for the most part, they want softballs, right?" (h/t Andrew Thompson)
WWE Clash At The Castle will take place on Saturday, Jun 15, 2024, at 1:30 PM EST. The co-main events will feature WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes taking on AJ Styles in an "I Quit" match and World Heavyweight Champion Damien Priest defending his title against hometown hero Drew McIntyre.
