Behind the Rumors: AI Is Not Writing WWE Shows
Talk of artificial intelligence scripting WWE storylines has swirled through the wrestling rumor mill in late 2025, but insiders say the reality is far more mundane—and far less dystopian—than the headlines suggest. With a wave of speculation about robots taking over creative control from iconic figures like Paul Heyman and Michael Hayes, industry reporters and voices within WWE have had to clarify what’s really happening behind the scenes, dismissing fears that fans will soon be watching chatbot-penned promos or algorithm-driven rivalries[1][3].
The Human Touch Still Rules—For Now
According to Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp, who addressed the rumors in a Q&A session on October 19, 2025, WWE’s creative process remains deeply human and collaborative[1][3]. “They’re like, ‘We write the scripts, we integrate it with the talent, we go over it with the talent. It’s all produced with the talent as well. It is not an AI thing,’” Sapp said, relaying feedback from both wrestlers and creative staff. One top talent even responded with frustration, personally taking offense at the suggestion that AI had a hand in the product, emphasizing that the likes of Ed Koskey, Paul Heyman, and Michael Hayes are still the architects of WWE’s weekly drama[1].
So What Is WWE Using AI For?
While AI isn’t crafting promos or plotting heel turns, WWE is quietly deploying advanced technology to streamline production and support the creative process. According to Sapp, AI tools act as a “digital writer’s assistant,” helping staff quickly recall match histories, organize data, and handle some production tasks like noise reduction and graphics management[3]. For example, AI might answer questions like, “When was the last time these two had a match?” or help clean up audio during chaotic backstage segments. It’s about efficiency, not authorship.
A source close to the production team confirmed that these tools have been particularly welcomed by overworked staff. “AI is helping us with the boring, time-consuming stuff—tracking stats, logging footage, even generating graphics for special events. But when it comes to the actual storytelling, there’s no substitute for human instinct and experience,” the insider revealed[3].
AI in Graphics and Visuals
One area where AI has visibly entered the product is in graphics and visuals. WWE has used AI-generated imagery for certain segments, such as the “El Grande Americano” gimmick, but even here, the technology is used in moderation—not as a creative driver, but as a production resource[3]. The human creative team still oversees the look and feel of the brand, ensuring that even AI-assisted visuals fit WWE’s signature style.
The Debate Over AI’s Future in Sports Entertainment
Despite the current limitations, there’s no doubt that WWE leadership is intrigued by AI’s potential. Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer has reported that Triple H sees AI as an “inevitable” part of the company’s future, and WWE’s recent hire of Cyrus Kowsari as Senior Director of Creative Strategy was made with an eye toward deeper AI integration[2][5]. “Triple H introduced the hire to the creative team and announced that he would be leading the company’s AI initiative,” a report from Sports Illustrated confirmed[5].
However, early tests haven’t been smooth. Meltzer described an AI-generated storyline—one that bizarrely cast former WWE star Bobby Lashley (now with AEW) as a wrestler obsessed with Japanese culture—as “absurdly bad.” Such missteps highlight the current gap between AI’s capabilities and the nuanced storytelling WWE fans expect[2][7].
Locker Room Reactions: Relief and Skepticism
Within the WWE locker room, there’s a mix of relief and skepticism. Many talent and writers were quick to confirm that they haven’t seen AI play a meaningful creative role, and some were downright offended by the suggestion. But as the company experiments with new technology, some are wary. “The creative team is open to anything that makes their jobs easier, but there’s a real fear that AI could eventually start replacing roles, not just assisting them,” a WWE writer told us on condition of anonymity.
The Bigger Picture: What’s Next for WWE and AI?
WWE has always been an early adopter of technology, from pioneering pay-per-view and streaming to experimenting with virtual fans during the pandemic. The company’s willingness to try new things means AI will likely play a bigger role in years to come, even if not in the ways fans fear. Industry analysts predict that AI could be used for analytics-driven storyline suggestions, marketing copy, and even preliminary script drafts—but, for now, the final product will remain in human hands[6].
Some speculate that WWE could one day use AI to generate entire shows, but even as AI becomes more sophisticated, the consensus backstage is that “the soul of wrestling”—the improvisation, the crowd reactions, the unscripted moments—can’t be replicated by machines[6]. As one longtime producer put it, “AI can help us organize and produce, but it can’t feel, and wrestling is nothing without feeling.”
Conclusion: AI Is a Tool, Not a Showrunner
The bottom line for WWE fans is clear: AI is not writing your favorite shows, at least not yet. The company is using artificial intelligence as a behind-the-scenes assistant, not a creative director. Storylines are still the domain of experienced writers and performers, but production is getting a high-tech boost. As WWE continues to experiment with new tools, expect AI to play a larger role in analytics, graphics, and maybe even marketing—but don’t expect ChatGPT to be booking the next WrestleMania main event anytime soon[1][3][5].
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Attributed Quotes for Authenticity:
“AI is helping us with the boring, time-consuming stuff—tracking stats, logging footage, even generating graphics for special events. But when it comes to the actual storytelling, there’s no substitute for human instinct and experience.” — WWE Production Insider
“The creative team is open to anything that makes their jobs easier, but there’s a real fear that AI could eventually start replacing roles, not just assisting them.” — WWE Writer (anonymous)
“AI can help us organize and produce, but it can’t feel, and wrestling is nothing without feeling.” — WWE Producer
In summary: While the rumor mill spins stories of robot writers plotting the next SmackDown, WWE’s real AI story is one of subtle support—not creative takeover. The drama, the rivalries, and the emotions that define WWE are still products of human imagination, and for now, that’s not changing. But as technology advances, WWE will keep testing the waters, always looking for an edge—both in and out of the ring.