wrestling / News
Backstage Note on Major WWE Name Expected To Replace Shawn Michaels In Overseeing NXT
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WWE could be preparing for a series of changes within its creative and developmental teams following WrestleMania season. A new report has outlined several names being considered for different responsibilities.
According to several reports, Bruce Prichard intends to retire as Executive Director of Creative Writing & Talent after WrestleMania season. The current internal plan reportedly involves Shawn Michaels taking over Prichard’s responsibilities, with Prichard remaining as a consultant, working from his home in Texas.
PWInsider now reports Michaels is expected to split his time between NXT and WWE headquarters. With that transition in mind, WWE is currently preparing CM Punk to potentially oversee NXT. He has reportedly attended most NXT broadcasts in recent weeks alongside Michaels.
While this potential move may raise questions about Punk’s wrestling future or retirement plans, PWInsider noted that there is no confirmed timeline for the proposed arrangement. WWE reportedly wants to ensure the move is the “right fit” for everyone involved. The report affirmed that internally, Punk is who people are “looking to slip into Michaels’ position” when the latter needs to step into Prichard’s duties.
PWInsider also addressed AJ Styles’ potential role. He is not currently being considered to run NXT, according to the report. He has instead been helping produce shows, partly covering for Terry Taylor during his recovery from knee surgery. WWE reportedly plans to involve Styles in talent scouting and its WWE ID program.
Meanwhile, Bobby Roode is being prepared to potentially assume responsibilities currently handled by Michael Hayes, including working as a top producer and contributing to creative. However, one WWE source reportedly suggested that multiple people could take over duties currently falling under Prichard’s position.
Things are getting a little weird backstage tonight… 💔
Good thing @AJStylesOrg and @CMPunk talked me into sticking around. 😂
Don’t forget, #WWENXT is on a special night TONIGHT! Wednesday at 8/7c on @TheCW pic.twitter.com/BFRssBwnds
— Shawn Michaels (@ShawnMichaels) November 4, 2026
