As the world of professional wrestling continues to evolve, WWE has made a notable shift in the way it structures its Premium Live Events (PLEs). Gone are the days of stacked, ten-bout cards that were once a staple of the industry. In their place, we’re seeing a more streamlined approach, with an emphasis on quality over quantity. But why is WWE making this change, and what does it mean for the future of the company’s flagship events?
According to WWE Executive Vice President of Talent, Live Events, and Creative, Bruce Prichard, the decision to adopt smaller match cards is a deliberate one. Speaking on the latest episode of Something to Wrestle, Prichard explained that modern audiences retain more when shows are streamlined, allowing for a more focused and immersive viewing experience.
The Attention Span of Today’s Audience
Prichard’s reasoning suggests that the way people consume entertainment has changed significantly over the years. With the rise of social media and streaming platforms, attention spans have become increasingly shorter. As a result, WWE’s Premium Live Events must adapt to keep fans engaged.
“When it comes to premium live events, we’re not just competing with other wrestling promotions anymore,” Prichard said. “We’re competing with a multitude of other forms of entertainment, from movies and TV shows to video games and social media. Our audience is bombarded with information and stimuli on a daily basis, and it’s our job to cut through the noise and deliver an experience that resonates with them.”
By streamlining the match cards, WWE is able to create a more cohesive and engaging narrative, one that flows smoothly from start to finish. This approach not only benefits the fans but also helps to reduce the risk of fatigue and burnout, both for the wrestlers and the production team.
Quality Over Quantity: The New Paradigm
Smaller match cards also enable WWE to focus on delivering high-quality matches, rather than trying to cram as many bouts as possible onto a single card. This shift in philosophy has led to some of the most critically acclaimed and fan-favorite matches in recent memory, including the 2022 Hell in a Cell bout between Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins, and the 2023 Men’s Royal Rumble match.
“Quality always trumps quantity in my book,” said a WWE insider, who wished to remain anonymous. “When we have a smaller match card, we can devote more time and resources to making each match truly special. It’s not just about getting through the show as quickly as possible; it’s about creating an experience that will be remembered for weeks to come.”
The Impact on WWE’s Creative Process
The move to smaller match cards has also had a significant impact on WWE’s creative process. With fewer matches to produce, the company’s writers and producers can focus on crafting more intricate and engaging storylines, ones that build towards a clear and satisfying conclusion.
“It’s amazing how much more cohesive and well-planned our shows have become since we made the switch to smaller match cards,” said a source close to Cody Rhodes. “We’re able to tell more nuanced and complex stories, ones that really resonate with the audience. It’s a game-changer, and it’s something that I think will continue to pay dividends for WWE in the long term.”
A New Era for WWE’s Premium Live Events
As WWE continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of professional wrestling, it’s clear that the company is committed to delivering the highest-quality Premium Live Events possible. By streamlining match cards and focusing on quality over quantity, WWE is creating an experience that will resonate with fans for years to come.
While some may lament the loss of the old-school, stacked match cards, it’s hard to argue with the results. WWE’s Premium Live Events have never been more engaging, more immersive, or more memorable. As the company looks to the future, it’s clear that the shift to smaller match cards is a move in the right direction.
In the words of Bruce Prichard, “We’re not just trying to put on a show; we’re trying to create an experience that will be remembered for a lifetime. And if that means we have to make some adjustments along the way, then so be it. We’re committed to delivering the best possible product, and I think our fans will be rewarded for their loyalty.”