Bruce Prichard’s WWE Return Delayed Until 2025 Amid Extended Leave

One Big Thing

WWE Executive Director Bruce Prichard won’t return to his role until early 2025, extending his current leave of absence for personal and family health matters.

Key Details

• Dave Meltzer’s Wrestling Observer Daily Update confirms Prichard’s extended absence
• Prichard remains employed by WWE during his leave
• Podcast co-host Conrad Thompson confirms absence is due to health matters
• Michael P.S. Hayes has returned from his separate leave of absence

Direct Quote

“Nothing salacious is going on. He’s just taking time for personal and family health issues.” – Conrad Thompson, Something to Wrestle podcast co-host

Why It Matters

Prichard’s role as Executive Director makes him a key figure in WWE’s creative process. His extended absence impacts:

• WWE’s creative direction and show production
• Backstage leadership structure
• Day-to-day operations of WWE programming

Behind the Numbers

• Prichard’s leave will extend past 12 months
• WWE continues strong ratings despite his absence
• Hayes has resumed producing major segments, including recent Bloodline and CM Punk storylines

What’s Next

WWE continues to adjust its creative process while Prichard is away. Hayes’s return helps stabilize the backstage team as they head into WrestleMania season.

What changes do you think we’ll see in WWE’s creative direction during Prichard’s extended absence? Share your thoughts in the comments below.