Backstage Notes On WWE Allegedly Transitioning To AI-Based Storytelling

It recently emerged that WWE has hired Cyrus Kowsari as the Senior Director of Creative Strategy to lead the company’s transition to AI-based storytelling.

Veteran journalist Dave Meltzer later reported via his Wrestling Observer Newsletter that the global juggernaut has joined forces with Writer AI software, which is being fed WWE stories. This led to fears that AI will eventually replace members of the creative team. However, Fightful Select later reported that that won’t be the case.

In the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer provided more clarity on the matter. He stated that while WWE’s top brass was upset with the reports that AI may replace writers, the higher-ups weren’t able to deny it either, instead deflecting that AI will be used for other things. The wrestling insider also revealed that WWE Chief Content Officer Paul Levesque clarified at a recent production meeting that “nobody in the writers’ room will be replaced.” That said, one person backstage noted that even if AI only eliminates some entry level jobs, that would mean less new writers being trained.

Meltzer added that while AI is currently being used as a writer’s assistant, that may not be the case moving forward. He also claimed that trust levels backstage are currently “down,” given how the Seth Rollins “injury” situation played out a few months ago and because of the belief among some that TKO has no loyalty toward anyone.

The wrestling insider also cited a person in the know of things stating that the only thing holding back AI at the moment is poor input. However, that’s because the input being fed to the software is the company’s past, i.e., the Vince McMahon-led era, which will likely not resonate with the current audience despite having worked during certain WWE eras. However, Meltzer reported that people backstage expect the AI software to become more effective moving forward.