Candice LeRae, a seasoned WWE veteran, has recently transitioned from in-ring competition to a backstage role as a match producer. While her new position allows her to use her wrestling experience to help shape matches for WWE’s next generation, some voices within the wrestling community have questioned whether her advancement is based on merit or heavily influenced by her marriage to fellow WWE star Johnny Gargano.
From Wrestler to Producer: Candice LeRae’s Career Shift
After a successful 22-year career primarily known for her dynamic in-ring performances, Candice LeRae began training for a backstage role late in 2024. Reports confirm she has already produced several matches for WWE Main Event, including a high-profile pre-SmackDown taping featuring The Street Profits versus Los Garza. Her responsibilities reportedly include match structure, creative input, and mentoring younger talent—areas where her years of competition give her valuable insight[1][2][3][4].
Despite a noticeable reduction in her on-screen appearances throughout 2025—only five matches on WWE SmackDown as of October and a recent loss to rising star Lainey Reid on NXT—LeRae’s shift appears to be a strategic long-term move to remain integral in WWE’s evolving landscape. Whether she will continue wrestling or focus exclusively on producing remains unclear[1][2].
Backstage Skepticism: Did Johnny Gargano’s Influence Play a Role?
LeRae’s promotion has not been without controversy. Vince Russo, a former WWE writer known for his candid opinions, publicly criticized the decision, suggesting that LeRae’s new role was more a product of her husband Johnny Gargano’s influence than her own qualifications. Russo pointed out Gargano’s close ties to influential figures like Shawn Michaels within WWE, implying a “good old boy” network at work.
He specifically questioned the decision to have LeRae produce matches involving sophisticated performers such as second-generation wrestlers Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo (Los Garza) and the experienced Street Profits team. Russo’s remarks emphasized disbelief that a woman “literally 105 pounds” should be guiding such established talent[5].
The Other Side: Credentials and Experience Supporting LeRae’s Role
Contrary to Russo’s critique, many within WWE view LeRae’s backstage role as a natural progression. Her in-ring acumen and long tenure make her well-suited to help craft compelling narratives and teach match psychology. WWE’s recent trend of transitioning experienced wrestlers like Molly Holly and Robert Roode into producing roles further supports the idea that LeRae is following an established path.
Sources close to WWE note that LeRae has been actively involved in creative discussions and is already contributing positively to main roster and NXT events. Her hands-on experience producing matches—such as the Main Event bouts and SmackDown tapings—is evidence of WWE’s trust in her ability to elevate talent behind the scenes[1][2][3].
What This Means for WWE and Female Talent
LeRae taking on this role also marks a broader shift within WWE to empower more women in creative and production responsibilities, not just in front of the camera but behind it. As a trailblazer in women’s wrestling and the first-ever WWE Women’s Speed Champion, her backstage involvement could open doors for more female producers and creative staff within the company, helping diversify WWE’s storytelling and match quality[6].
Backstage Quote
“Candice has a unique perspective that comes from her years competing at a high level and balancing managing duties for other talents,” a WWE insider shared. “Her work producing matches for Main Event and SmackDown is already gaining respect. While some may question the timing, those who know her work believe she’s earned this transition based on skill, not just connections.”
Looking Ahead: Balancing Wrestling and Producing
The big question WWE fans and insiders are watching is whether LeRae will continue wrestling sporadically or fully embrace her producer role. With WWE focusing on developing talent in NXT and its main roster, LeRae’s dual experience as a competitor and producer could prove invaluable in nurturing future stars.
This move could also signify WWE’s strategy to keep beloved veterans involved in crucial backstage roles, ensuring continuity of match quality and storytelling depth as the product evolves.
Candice LeRae’s new backstage role represents an intriguing evolution in her career. While the influence of her husband Johnny Gargano cannot be entirely dismissed as a factor, the consensus among WWE insiders leans toward recognition of her talents and the company’s broader push to diversify creative leadership, particularly among women in wrestling. The next steps for LeRae will be closely watched by fans and critics alike as she navigates this significant shift behind the curtain.
