Lane points out that James Ellsworth did an interview this past week. During that interview, Ellsworth informed that he thinks his release from WWE came partly as a result of him arguing about his character’s creative. Gilbertti points out that Ellsworth’s not a star and he was expendable, so he can’t act up or argue things like the top guys. Russo gives Ellsworth credit for speaking up about his character, but he adds that if you make those comments you have to understand that there may be consequences.
Lane informs that Vince McMahon has reportedly given up control of 205 Live, passing the show onto Triple H. 205 Live’s ratings actually increased after McMahon moved Enzo Amore to the brand, but even with the increase in ratings, some people within the company still wanted to change the show.
Russo thinks it’s ridiculous that some people within the company wanted to change the show just as things were appearing to pick up, with McMahon focusing on character driven storylines. He fears that under Triple H’s direction the show will focus solely on in-ring action, alienating mainstream fans and making it nearly impossible for the brand to attract new viewers.
Gilbertti points out that WWE has continuously placed television ratings on the back-burner over the last couple of years. WWE officials might argue that ratings don’t matter anymore, but eventually they’re going to come to the harsh realization that this is untrue. USA Network knows what WWE’s ratings were in the past, and since the ratings continue to fall, the network won’t be quick to hand WWE a big cheque for television rights. Gilbertti also doesn’t think that the addition of Ronda Rousey will help WWE’s negotiations with television networks.
