Introduction to WWE's Challenges in 2019

In 2019, WWE faced a myriad of issues, primarily centered around storytelling and talent treatment. The company's performance during this period was marked by a decline in compelling storylines, leading to a stale and repetitive product that negatively impacted both ratings and fan satisfaction.

Storyline Issues in WWE

One of the most significant problems WWE encountered in 2019 was the lack of engaging storylines and character development. Fans and critics alike pointed out that the product felt stale, with repetitive matchups and an over-reliance on a few key stars such as Brock Lesnar and The Undertaker. This over-reliance not only made matches seem monotonous but also hindered the growth of other talents.

Branding and Consistency: The introduction of the brand split further complicated matters. This move to Fox for SmackDown created additional challenges in maintaining consistent storylines and continuity across events. The disjointed nature of storylines across different shows led to a fragmented experience for the audience.

Fantastic But Forgotten: WWE also faced criticism for its treatment of iconic talents, including the decision to release popular wrestlers. This not only created a sense of instability among fans but also harmed the company's long-term appeal. Opportunities for newer talent to shine were limited, making it difficult for them to establish themselves as standout performers.

The combination of these issues contributed to declining ratings and lower fan engagement, leading to increased dissatisfaction among WWE's core audience.

Talent Treatment and Health Concerns

The second major challenge WWE faced in 2019 was the treatment of its talents in terms of health and financial well-being. Pro wrestlers were essentially independent contractors, with no unionization allowed, and no guaranteed retirement or long-term health insurance.

Unfair Practices: This lack of protections for athletes is particularly concerning given the physical toll of wrestling. Pro wrestlers often face high risks of concussions and other injuries, which can have long-term consequences on their health. WWE's prioritization of profits over the well-being of its biggest stars raises serious ethical concerns.

Iconic Figures Dismissed: The case of Brodus Clay (HHH) highlights the need for change. Clay, who has publicly expressed a desire to revere his role as a respected leader in WWE, emphasizes the necessity of unionizing talent. This change would not only protect the health and financial stability of wrestlers but also enhance the overall quality of storytelling within the company.

Unionization Pushed by AEW: Tony Khan, the head of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), has made the prioritization of wrestler health and unionization a key component of his mission. It is time for WWE to follow this lead and implement similar changes to protect its own roster of stars.

Future of WWE: Innovation and Change

While WWE appears to be in its best shape in over three decades, there is always room for improvement. The company needs to innovate and prioritize the well-being of its talents.

Storyline Reimaginings: WWE should explore unorthodox storyline ideas, such as a potential match between The Undertaker (Taker) and Sting. This could have created a compelling and epic angle, leveraging the on-screen charisma and history of both wrestlers. Similarly, rather than overpromoting established stars like Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar, there should be a greater focus on nurturing up-and-coming NXT talent. These future stars could become the core of WWE's storylines as they grow and develop.

Media Control and Fan Engagement: Wrestlers should be given more creative control over their angles and storylines. This could lead to more dynamic and engaging matches and storylines, increasing fan interest and retention. Matches against the same opponents should be limited to ensure freshness and maintain fan engagement throughout the year.

WWE has a unique opportunity to not only maintain its current position but also to reassert its dominance in the wrestling industry. The road ahead is clear: prioritize the well-being of its talents and continue to innovate in storytelling to captivate an even larger audience.

In conclusion, while WWE has made significant strides in recent years, addressing the core issues of storytelling and talent treatment is crucial for long-term success. Unionization and improved health protections can significantly enhance both the company's narrative and its responsibilities towards its most valuable assets.