WWE’s Royal Rumble Event Was Much Easier Without Vince McMahon Around

WWE’s 2023 Royal Rumble event meant more than just producing a show for Triple H. He’s been responsible for massive events before, but there’s something special about the Royal Rumble event, and everything that comes after that. Vince McMahon’s return to WWE caused a lot to fear the company’s creative direction, but it turns out that Triple H has a handle on things.

Sean Sapp noted behind Fightful’s paywall that Vince McMahon was not spotted at all around the Royal Rumble. His creative influence was also not felt during the show either.

In the end, WWE had a very good feeling about the show. This included the backstage morale and how Triple H put everything together. It was also noted that the entire process was the “easiest” that it’s been in a long time.

Vince McMahon was not seen at the Royal Rumble, and his creative influence was not felt on the show. Those that we’ve heard back from have stated that from a day to day and weekly basis, the atmosphere is much more laid back. One of the only reminders of Vince’s influence remains the “Vince’s office” directional sign that hasn’t been changed since he left, but points to a section of the backstage area that is completely different. One source says it’s not like anyone is fearful of bringing up his name, but generally most haven’t really asked much since Triple H, Nick Khan and Kevin Dunn held meetings assuring the roster that McMahon wouldn’t be involved in creative or talent relations.

Advertising

Advertising

One talent that had noted to us that the process of the Rumble itself was the easiest in a long time without Vince McMahon at the helm, and that there were way less last minute changes. That talent also said that you can’t really count 2021 towards that because of COVID, but that this year’s was a dream compared to last year’s nightmare.

Talent also spoke of the main event segment being a “new age curtain sellout” with many people quietly around monitors watching the Bloodline/Sami Zayn angle play out.

It was also noted that, “The only complaints that we heard of were about the Hardy performance cutting into the time of others, and some minor transitional things that they believe the current regime will get used to.” We previously reported that Hardy’s performance was dragged bit internally.

That positivity is also being felt in developmental. It was also reported that, “Even NXT talent that Fightful spoke to expressed optimism now that the one-year ban on NXT talent being in the Rumble was lifted.”

WWE’s Royal Rumble event was a big success. They broke gate records and kicked off huge road to WrestleMania. It’s nice to know that WWE is very happy about how things turned out, because they had very few reasons to complain this time around.

What’s your take on this situation with the Royal Rumble? Sound off in the comments!