Tyrese Haliburton would’ve loved the chance to compete in the Men’s Royal Rumble match, but it wasn’t meant to be thanks to Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque. Appearing on The Pat McAfee Show, the Indiana Pacers star shared that he had hoped to be in the 30-Man contest with a World Title opportunity at WrestleMania 41 on the line.
“Me and Triple H talked about it. He was like, ‘A lot of people are asking if you’re going to be in the Rumble. I just laughed in their face.’ ‘What the f**k?’”
Haliburton speculated that Triple H was “a little scared” about letting him get physical, especialy in the middle of the NBA season. The NBA star referenced Jalen Brunson’s appearance in 2024 with a broken hand, to which “Triple H kind of had a heart attack.” While Haliburton didn’t compete this year, the Rumble did see celebrity involvement from IShowSpeed, who had a brief, painful, and viral interaction with Bron Breakker.
Though Haliburton didn’t appear in the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble, his WWE standing can’t be denied. The Indiana Pacer has already appeared for WWE NXT and WWE SmackDown, meaning fans can’t count out a future role at a WWE PLE. With plans already in place for the 2026 Royal Rumble, a show IShowSpeed is already preparing for, perhaps Haliburton will get his spot in the iconic match stipulation next year.
Sami Zayn has revealed how his relationship with WWE creative has changed over the years.
Whether it’s giving a celebrity like Johnny Knoxville a good match or putting over young stars like Bron Breakker, Zayn is a name that WWE officials always seem to rely on more than most veteran talents on the roster.
During a recent interview with Flamesnation, the Underdog from The Underground was asked if the creative ever hear no from him for anything they throw at him. Sami Zayn explained that they don’t hear no but they always hear different ideas:
“I don’t think they hear no, but they hear ideas, that’s for sure. They hear a lot of them. I think I’ve been pretty fortunate over the years to have a pretty decent success rate to where it’s given me a certain amount of equity with them that my ideas will be heard. And again, I’ll also give a little bit of credit to the sort of change in creative and the creative shift over the years.
Last couple of years under Triple H, but even a little bit prior to that, just with my relationship with the creative team to where just my voice feels heard. They’re not gonna do everything I suggest but they don’t look at it like ‘Gosh, these wrestlers giving us these ideas.’ Some wrestlers might give bad ideas. I hope I’m not throwing anything bad out there.”
Sami Zayn explained that the equity he has built with the creative over the years has allowed the two parties to be more communicative. His positive reputation is one of the reasons why the former IC Champion is always factored into plans:
“So I’ll throw a lot out there and I really appreciate having a voice that’s heard and being met or if an idea doesn’t work, they kind of explain why and ‘Hey we want to do this idea instead’ or whatever and you just go with it.
But even that’s sort of like a privilege that’s earned over time. Because they don’t write everybody into stories all the time. I feel like over the last 4-5 years I’ve been consistently written into a story at all times. Then it’s incumbent on me to just make it work. So that I don’t know, that’s not lost on me.”
WWE may be considering a change to the format of the 2025 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony.
While the event was never officially announced along with the other WrestleMania activities, it was widely believed to be scheduled for April 18, 2025, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas—the night before WrestleMania 41. Traditionally, the ceremony airs immediately after SmackDown in the same arena, streaming on Peacock and other platforms.
However, WrestleVotes reported today that WWE officials are reconsidering this format, as some within the company are unhappy with the event following SmackDown.
“After speaking with sources, we’ve heard varying speculation about when and where the 2025 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony will take place. Some within the company strongly dislike the recent format of the ceremony following SmackDown. We’re told WWE is considering a change, with no mention of the time or place in any WM promotional material so far.”
Paul “Triple H” Levesque is set to headline the 2025 Hall of Fame class, with Michelle McCool as the only other announced inductee so far. Additional names are expected to be revealed soon.
The Hall of Fame ceremony will be part of a packed WrestleMania weekend, including NXT Stand & Deliver on the afternoon of April 19, followed by WrestleMania 41 – Night 1 that evening.
Brian James has seen WWE’s creative process from all angles, and under Triple H’s leadership, he says it has reached new heights. Speaking on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, James compared the current WWE regime to the past and praised Triple H’s vision for the future.
“The New regime is like Google—we’ve got ping pong tables in the production meeting room! Creativity flows, and no one gets shut down,” James joked, highlighting the new environment.
James noted that under previous leadership, creative ideas were often stifled, making it harder to innovate. However, Triple H has created an atmosphere where all ideas are considered, leading to a more engaging product for fans.
Beyond creative freedom, James credited Triple H’s ability to think both short-term and long-term.
“He has such a vision—right now and five years from now at the same time. I’ve never seen anything like it.”
With WWE’s storytelling at an all-time high and its production value continually evolving, James believes the company is in the best hands possible.
“He’s taken this industry into a stratosphere that wasn’t even thought about.”
Veteran WWE announcer Michael Cole recently shared his thoughts on WWE’s leadership transition during an appearance on Impaulsive, revealing to Logan Paul that under Vince McMahon, he never had the freedom to fully express himself.
Cole explained that during McMahon’s tenure, every aspect of WWE’s presentation adhered strictly to his vision.
“I was never really able to break out,” he admitted. “Vince was very hands-on, and everything had to fit his vision. It was his sandbox.”
Now, with Triple H and WWE President Nick Khan at the helm, Cole says the culture has shifted dramatically.
“We’re allowed to have bigger personalities now,” he noted. “You’re seeing the real Michael Cole—the guy who crowd surfs, who gets on tables, who jokes around. That would’ve never happened under Vince.”
Feeling Valued Like Never Before
Beyond creative freedom, Cole emphasized that WWE’s new leadership has made him feel truly appreciated.
“For the first time in my career, I really felt like I was important to this place,” he shared.
“The paycheck was part of it, but the way the new regime treats us… it’s night and day.”
This shift in philosophy extends across WWE, with talent now enjoying greater creative control.
“Before, Vince controlled everything,” Cole said. “Now, wrestlers are delivering promos in their own voices, and it’s making the product better.”
Cole also revealed that the company’s evolution played a key role in his decision to continue his career.
“I was considering stepping away, but my wife told me, ‘This is your legacy.’ And she was right.”
With nearly three decades in WWE, Cole is embracing this new chapter, proving that even a longtime voice of the company can still evolve alongside it.
Watch Michael Cole’s full interview on Impaulsive with Logan Paul:
WWE executive Paul “Triple H” Levesque has provided a first look at new championship belts that will be used as part of the WWE ID program.
In a social media post Tuesday afternoon, Triple H wrote:
“The top independent wrestling prospects have been ID’d… and now, we’re ready to spotlight the best of the best. Here’s your first look at the Men’s and Women’s @WWEID Championships.”
Tournaments will be held to crown the inaugural WWE ID Men’s and Women’s champions. The titles will be defended at independent wrestling shows. More on that here:
The WWE Independent Development (ID) program is WWE’s talent development initiative that partners with wrestling schools to identify and nurture promising independent wrestlers. Selected prospects receive financial benefits, training facility access, and mentorship while maintaining their ability to compete in independent promotions. The program includes a right of first refusal clause – if another major promotion offers a contract to a WWE ID prospect, WWE can either match the offer or allow the talent to sign elsewhere.
WWE’s Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque has received official recognition from the Connecticut State General Assembly ahead of WrestleMania 40. The legislative body honored the wrestling legend with an official citation on February 6, 2025, acknowledging his upcoming WWE Hall of Fame induction and contributions to the sports entertainment industry.
The Connecticut Black and Puerto Rican Caucus specifically recognized Levesque, a longtime Connecticut resident, for his “extraordinary legacy as a legendary competitor and visionary executive.” The citation celebrates his role in revolutionizing the professional wrestling industry.
Responding to the honor on Twitter, Levesque expressed his gratitude: “An honor to receive…Thank you to all in the Connecticut State Assembly for the recognition and the excitement around this year’s #WrestleMania.”
Certificate Details: The official citation, signed by the President Pro Tempore, Speaker of the House, and Secretary of State, was presented at the State Capitol in Hartford. It was introduced by a bipartisan group of representatives and recognizes Levesque’s induction into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2025. The document acknowledges his dual impact as both a performer and executive, highlighting his ongoing influence in the professional wrestling industry.????????????????
Posted February 15th, 2025 in WWE. Tagged: Triple H.
Linda McMahon, former WWE CEO, appeared before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee today for her confirmation hearing as Secretary of Education. McMahon was joined by her daughter Stephanie and son-in-law Paul ‘Triple’ Levesque at the proceedings at the Dirksen Senate Office Building. Levesque was seated directly behind the nominee while Stephanie was to the right of her husband. Linda’s son Shane was also present alongside his wife Marissa.
Pres. Trump's pick to lead the Department of Education, Linda McMahon, testifies that she’s ready to “enact” Trump’s vision.
McMahon’s hearing comes at a pivotal moment for the Department of Education, as President Trump has openly declared his intention to eliminate the agency. Trump, who McMahon worked for during his first presidency, has referred to the department as a “big con job.” Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency has already reduced the department’s funding by nearly $1 billion, raising questions about McMahon’s potential role in leading an agency marked for dissolution.
McMahon brings significant business acumen from her tenure transforming WWE into a multi-billion-dollar enterprise though has little background in education. Though McMahon previously served for one year on Connecticut’s State Board of Education, her departure came with controversy. After her exit, it was revealed that she had misled the board when applying, claiming she had a Bachelors degree in Education. Her degree is actually in Frnech.
This confirmation process represents a crucial juncture for federal education policy as McMahon may be tasked with overseeing major structural changes. With McMahon dedicating her loyalty to Trump/Musk’s plot to abolish the department, her time leading the DOE may be a short one if confirmed.
Triple H is set to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame for the second time, this time as an individual member of the Class of 2025. While some have criticized the decision, AEW announcer Jim Ross isn’t having any of the backlash surrounding the decision.
Speaking on his Grilling JR podcast, Ross shut down critics of Triple H’s induction, and believes the idea that he only succeeded in wrestling due to his marriage to Stephanie McMahon is farcical.
“Anybody that says he’s not deserving, the only reason he’s in is because of who he married is such bulls***. It’s weak. If you’re saying that, stop. Stop embarrassing yourself.”
Ross highlighted many high-points of Triple H’s in-ring career, including being “the top heel in one of the hottest eras in WWE.” Now as WWEs Chief Content Officer, Triple H is the “head coach of that same team that’s setting records.” Though he no longer works at WWE, Ross found it appropriate to reach out to Triple H.
“I sent him a text the other day, congratulating him, and believe it or not, it was the day after the Rumble, he texted me back. He doesn’t forget those that have helped him along the way.”
Triple H was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2019 as part of DX but is now set to receive a solo spotlight. While some fans may have an issue with WWE’s Chief Content Officer going in, JR’s message is clear—anyone questioning The Game’s legacy needs to stop talking.
Triple H says his Hall of Fame induction is one of the most meaningful things of his career for him.
The Game was surprised by the trio of Nick Khan, Undertaker, and Shawn Michaels who announced him as the headliner for the 2025 Hall of Fame during a WWE Townhall meeting earlier this week.
The former World Champion was asked how he felt about the announcement during his appearance on the post-Royal Rumble media scrum. Triple H noted that he had previously been inducted as part of the DX, but going in alone is very different:
“I’ll be honest. We did it with DX. It was a lot of fun. It’s different when it’s you. While I’ve been a part of all of these, and I’ve seen some talent see it as the biggest honor. I’ve seen other talent be like, ‘Yeah, whatever.’ But for the most part, our talent all see it as sort of the ultimate pay of respect to you and your career.
I’ve had the honor of calling a lot of people to tell them, ‘We’re going to induct you in the Hall of Fame,’ or be there in person to say to them, ‘We’re going to induct you into the Hall of Fame’ and watch them cry and watch them get emotional. Because of our passion for what we do, it hit me up way harder than I thought it would.”
Triple H said that when Taker and HBK first came out, he thought that they were there to promote some WWE project. The WWE creative head claimed that it was a very emotional moment when the reality dawned on him:
“When we left there, it was a kind of an oddly comical and surreal moment. Then Taker was there, and Shawn was there. We went straight upstairs and went into a meeting and everything else. As it slowly started to dawn on me, I thought like, ‘Here we go.’
The same moment that I watched everybody else have, that emotions, all flooding over you. Of your career, the people you’ve worked with, what it meant to you, the fans that you’ve met around the world, the moments that you’ve been able to create and share. Fortunately for me, this is not, I’m not out of the business.
I have the maybe almost more enjoyable point in my life of being able to watch all these guys do it now. Help them get there and put it all together. But it was emotional, and I’m excited for it. I wish it wasn’t at WrestleMania, so I could focus on it more, but it’s one of the most meaningful things in my career.”
CM Punk says the big difference between Vince McMahon and Triple H running WWE creative is that the latter listens to other people.
The Straight Edge Star was the latest guest on Pat McAfee Show ahead of tonight’s Royal Rumble PPV. He talked about things such as performing in front of big crowds, his 2024 injury, and more.
When asked about Triple H taking over the creative and how The Game’s process differs from his father-in-law, Punk explained that the Attitude Era star is more receptive to other people’s ideas:
“I think he’s receptive to other people’s ideas, whereas maybe Vince wasn’t. He was like, ‘I’m the boss. We’re doing this, and this is how we’re doing it.’ And that’s great. If you run a company, you need somebody who is the yes and no man and [has] the final say.”
CM Punk claimed that Triple H has surrounded himself with people who have Bonafide resumes and it allows him to filter the best ideas:
“But I think Triple H thinks he’s surrounded, and oftentimes is, by a lot of really, really genius wrestling minds. If he has an idea or see something one way, he’ll look at Michael Hayes and be like, ‘What do you think?’ He’ll turn and look at Paul Heyman.
These are people who have Bonafide resumes. They have literally done everything you possibly could do in the sport. I think their voices should be heard. Not all the time everybody’s going to have this dynamite idea. But I think the best idea always wins in today’s WWE.”
Apart from this Punk also talked about John Cena announcing his retirement tour for 2025. You can check out his comments on the matter here.
Could NBA star Tyrese Haliburton make his presence felt in the upcoming Men’s 2025 Royal Rumble match? Don’t count it out. This week, the Indiana Pacers star made time to attend the Royal Rumble kickoff show. He confirmed that after his game, he plans to handle media obligations, freshen up, and head straight to Lucas Oil Stadium to attend WWE’s first PLE of 2025.
Haliburton then introduced Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque, the first inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2025. Levesque, a two-time winner of the Royal Rumble, closed his spirited promo bu reminding fans that you never know who will show up in a Royal Rumble match. He then approached Haliburton and said “Let’s talk,” teasing that the NBA star will do much more in Lucas Oil Stadium than watch the show.
Triple H says that “just about anybody could enter the #RoyalRumble as a surprise”.
And then proceeds to ask Indiana Pacers’ Tyrese Haliburton if he’s got a minute. pic.twitter.com/rsOXs27x2N
Haliburton is a known WWE fan, and stirred up drama with comments about Orlando during a WWE NXT appearance last year. In September 2024, Haliburton teased “surprises” for the Royal Rumble PLE, with fans now waiting to see if he steps in the ring.
The Indiana Pacers star was also present on this week’s WWE SmackDown, again demonstrating his deep love for all things WWE. Stay tuned to SEScoops to find out if Haliburton is just a visitor at tonight’s Premium Live Event or if he gets in the ring.
On January 29, WWE announced that Triple H will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as the first member of the class of 2025. The news was first reported by PW Insider. On X, Stephanie McMahon shared that like her husband, the announcement by Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker came to a surprise as well. McMahon added that Triple H never would’ve put himself forward for the honor before congratulating her “king.”
You got me too @ShawnMichaels and @undertaker! It is my honor to witness your brotherhood. Thank you for making the Executive Decision because you know Paul never would! Congratulations to my King, @TripleH! You have more than earned your place in Immortality #WWEHOF class of… https://t.co/yifO2OnBCp
Triple H will become the latest WWE legend to become a two-time inductee after previously being inducted in 2019 for his role in D-Generation X. Triple H’s friend and mentor Ric Flair became WWE’s first two-time inductee in 2012 and has since been joined by Shawn Michaels, Booker T, Bret Hart, and more. The Game will be the first two-time inductee to be inducted for his role as a singles Superstar second.
It remains to be seen who joins Triple H as part of this year’s Hall of Fame class but this year’s festivities are already off to a strong star. Triple H’s Evolution ally Batista was announced in 2020, but withdrew due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Fans have been waiting for Bray Wyatt’s induction following his passing in 2023, though that has yet to happen.
Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Triple H and the WWE Hall of Fame as the show will be part of a huge WrestleMania week.
Paul “Triple H” Levesque is set to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. According to PWInsider.com, the announcement was made during a WWE Town Hall meeting for company employees. Triple H was caught off guard by the surprise, which was delivered by Stephanie McMahon, The Undertaker, and Shawn Michaels. Reports indicate that he became very emotional upon hearing the news and even joked about “killing” WWE President Nick Khan for the unexpected reveal.
Triple H has had a long and storied career in WWE, filled with accomplishments both in the ring and behind the scenes. Below are some of his key accolades:
In-Ring Achievements:
14-time World Champion: A 9-time WWE Champion and a 5-time World Heavyweight Champion.
5-time Intercontinental Champion: A title often seen as a stepping stone to the world championship.
2-time Royal Rumble Winner: Winning in 2002 and 2016, earning the opportunity to headline WrestleMania.
1997 King of the Ring Winner: A prestigious tournament victory in WWE.
Grand Slam Champion: The second wrestler to achieve this feat, winning the WWE Championship, World Heavyweight Championship, Intercontinental Championship, and a tag team championship.
Tag Team Champion: Held various tag team titles with partners including Shawn Michaels and Stone Cold Steve Austin.
WWE Hall of Fame Inductee (2019): Previously inducted as part of D-Generation X.
WrestleMania Main Eventer: Headlined multiple WrestleMania events, WWE’s biggest show of the year.
Beyond the Ring:
Key Figure in the Attitude Era: A founding member of D-Generation X, a faction that played a major role in WWE’s Attitude Era.
Creator of NXT: Credited with developing NXT, WWE’s developmental brand, which has become a critically acclaimed platform for rising stars.
WWE Executive: Held the role of Executive Vice President of Talent, Live Events, and Creative, overseeing talent relations, live shows, and WWE’s creative direction.
Chief Content Officer: Currently serves as WWE’s Chief Content Officer, responsible for the creative direction of the company’s programming.
Triple H’s contributions to WWE extend far beyond his in-ring success. His influence behind the scenes has shaped the modern landscape of professional wrestling, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.
Posted January 29th, 2025 in WWE. Tagged: Triple H.
Kamaru Usman has established himself as a name in UFC for years, and now the fighter has shown interest in WWE. On X, WWE Chief Content Officer Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque shared that Usman recently visited WWE’s headquarters in Connecticut.
Levesque’s post got plenty of attention by fans, many of whom hope to see Usman transition from the Octagon to the squared circle. One fans noted that “I speak for EVERYONE when I say We want Usman vs Bad Bunny,” pitching a match that’d feature the Grammy award-winning artist. Another fan added that “WWE and UFC collab is all we want to see” while a third asked if this was a sign Usman is coming to WWE.
Like many Superstars competing in WWE today, Usman boasts a background in amateur wrestling, where he became a NCAA Division II national champion. In UFC, Usman is a former Welterweight Champion. His most recent fight came at UFC 294 in October 2023.
WWE And UFC
In 2023, WWE and UFC came together under TKO Group Holdings, merging two of the biggest names. Quickly, names from both sides began appearing for the other, demonstrating the synergy within TKO. WWE names have become regulars at UFC events while Michael Chandler was on Raw in 2024 with a message for Conor McGregor.
The Undertaker has spoken candidly about the major cultural shift happening in WWE’s backstage environment under the leadership of Triple H and Nick Khan.
Once known for its high-pressure atmosphere during Vince McMahon’s tenure, WWE’s backstage now exudes a relaxed and creative energy, a change that the Deadman attributes to the trust and positivity instilled by its current leadership. Reflecting on the difference on his Six Feet Under podcast, The Undertaker shared:
“It’s so chill backstage now… You’ve got people in corners shooting TikToks. I think it’s a testament to the trust Triple H and Nick Khan have in everyone to do their jobs.”
He contrasted this with the old days, where stress often trickled down from the top.
“Back in the day, if the boss was stressed, everyone else was stressed. Now, there’s a trust in the system that makes a difference.”
The shift, he says, stems largely from Triple H’s leadership style, which emphasizes collaboration, trust, and fostering a positive atmosphere.
“Triple H puts out so much positive energy, and it resonates with the whole team. It’s a completely different atmosphere.”
This new dynamic, The Undertaker noted, empowers talent to focus more on their creativity and performances, rather than worrying about backstage politics or pressure.
By prioritizing trust and confidence in his roster and staff, Triple H has cultivated an environment where performers can thrive. This transformation signals WWE’s modernization under its evolving leadership and highlights how backstage morale can directly impact the quality of the product fans see on-screen.
In closing, The Undertaker lauded Triple H and Nick Khan for ushering in this new era: a backstage culture built on trust, positivity, and creativity—a far cry from the high-pressure days of the previous regime.
Check out latest episode of The Undertaker’s Six Feet Under podcast:
WWE filed several trademark applications with the US Patent & Trademark Office earlier this week (January 14). They include:
The Game: A nickname synonymous with Triple H. The term has been used less frequently in recent years now that he is retired from in-ring competition. Instead, WWE programming often highlights Triple H’s role as WWE’s Chief Content Officer.
Lashing Out w/ Lash Legend: A talk show hosted by Meta-Four’s Lash Legend. The segment debuted in September 2021 but hasn’t been used on NXT programming since 2022.
Malik Blade: Blade comptes in WWE NXT and debuted for the brand in October 2021 with a loss to Tony D’Angelo. His biggest TV match to date came at NXT Gold Rush in June 2023, where he and Edris Enofe challenged for the NXT Tag Team Championships.
Brooks Jensen: Jensen gained major attention in 2024 when he teased that he’d left WWE and even showed up at independent events. Now a part of NXT programming once again, he has been under the tutelage of Shawn Spears.
Sam Stoker: This is the former ring-name of SmackDown’s Kit Wilson. The Pretty Deadly star also went by Smooth Sammy Smooth on the independents but has used the Wilson name since April 2022.
These terms all shared similar ‘Goods and Services’ descriptions (“wrestling exhibitions and performances”), typical for the WWE trademark filings we track here for our readers.
Chelsea Green is pleased to see the steps WWE has taken to promote equality among its male and female rosters, and believes Triple H has played a large role in facilitating that change. Speaking to the Sports Agents, Green acknowledged the efforts of WWE’s Chief Content Officer.
“I love my job. I feel safe, I feel supported. Triple H makes women specifically feel absolutely equal to men. Thats why I love to come to work. That’s why I feel so supported.”
Green highlighted just some of the changes, including women headling WrestleMania twice, a feat that would not have seemed possible in previous eras. While Green is pleased that things have progressed, she made sure to reflect on those who paved the way.
“We would not be here without that side of things. We in 2025 would not have the success we had if not for the Attitude Era.”
"Triple H makes women specifically feel absolutely equal." ?@WWE US Women's champ @ImChelseaGreen praises boss Triple H for his leadership, which has begun to close the book on controversies surrounding previous owner Vince McMahon.https://t.co/Dawh1yMAhJpic.twitter.com/9ITMeom83w
Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on WWE and its changes as the company’s approach to women continues to adapt in this post-Vince McMahon era of the promotion.
In a pivotal moment during the Eagles’ wild card playoff game against the Packers, rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell clinched the victory with a game-winning interception. To celebrate, Mitchell paid homage to WWE legend Triple H by attempting to perform the iconic Pedigree move on his teammate, Cooper DeJean.
Triple H responded to the moment on social media, congratulating Mitchell and the Eagles on their big win. Since he “didn’t get all of it,” the WWE icon humorously commented on the botched move, noting that there’s a reason WWE advises fans not to try its moves at home.
Both Mitchell and DeJean have been instrumental in the Eagles’ success this season. The two rookie defensive backs quickly moved beyond their rookie status, emerging as key contributors to Philadelphia’s top-ranked pass defense.
Throughout the season, Mitchell and DeJean have developed a strong bond, characterized by friendly competition and mutual support. Their on-field synergy and off-field camaraderie have been evident, making this celebratory moment a fitting highlight of their standout rookie campaigns.
Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque isn’t shying away from what WWE represents in its new era, after the promotion first-ever Raw as part of Netflix. Before the historic episode, WWE debuted a cold open video package featuring Levesque using insider wrestling terminology such as “shoot,” “face,” and “heel.”
The use of these terms sparked a debate online with fans both for and against using insider lingo. On the post-show media scrum, Levesque reflected on the reaction to his verbiage.
“The reaction seems like we did a good job with it. That was the intent, to capture the emotion and let people know, we’re not hiding what we do.”
Levesque has no intention of “insulting anybody’s intelligence” by perpetuating the notion that professional wrestling is a completely legitimate sport. Under his leadership, WWE is embracing its identity as an “art form” designed to resonate with both loyal fans and newcomers.
“It was all part of trying to capture that and say, ‘If you’ve watched, watch this and hopefully we honor what you love. If you’ve never watched this, watch this, we’ll explain to you what we are.'”
These terms had previously been banned by Vince McMahon, and their inclusion further demonstrates that WWE has moved on from its previous head. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on WWE’s new era, an era that will be more honest about the inner workings of the wrestling business.
WWE SmackDown expanded to a 3-hour format this past Friday (January 3, 2025), but the show will drop the extra hour later this year. Triple H, WWE’s EVP of Global Talent Strategy & Development, confirmed this transition during a Monday appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.
“Look, there are some parameters that we have to hit, but it’s no different than episodic television shows,” he began. “Sometimes there’s an episode that’s 45 minutes, the next week it’s an hour, right? It depends on what you need to put into that show.”
Triple H provided insight on the production-aspect of show lengths. “Sometimes when we do three-hour shows there’s a little bit of collapsible stuff in there that’s put in on purpose. It’s a little bit of fat in the show that you can trim off if you need to.”
"Somewhere between that two and three hour window is the sweet spot..
He added that sometimes with a two-hour show, they need to cut things out to keep the show as tight as possible. “So somewhere between that two and three-hour window, to me, is the sweet spot.”
“The Game” emphasized that while SmackDown is presently a three-hour spectacle, it is slated to return to the two-hour format in the foreseeable future. However, he refrained from specifying an exact date for this change.
“Yes, for right now (it is three hours), and then it switches back to two.”
Triple H confirms WWE SmackDown is returning to a two-hour format in 2025
Brandon Thurston of Wrestlenomics says SmackDown is slated to go back to two hours in June 2025 and credits Wrestlevotes with the scoop.
Levesque didn't specify the timing here. I've been informed Smackdown is planned to return to a 2-hour format beginning in June.
Meanwhile, WWE Raw, another flagship show from the wrestling giant, is gearing up for its Netflix premiere. The inaugural episode is scheduled to air on Monday, January 6 and the show will have no set run-time each week, a unique perk they’re afforded on Netflix.
Tonight’s debut of Monday Night Raw on Netflix marks a monumental step forward for WWE, and the company is pulling out all the stops to ensure it begins on a high note. From an impactful opening segment to extensive behind-the-scenes preparations, WWE is determined to set a new standard for its flagship show.
According to PWInsider, the opening segment will feature WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque delivering a powerful, extended promo. This address will spotlight WWE’s evolution, reflecting on the company’s storied past while embracing the fresh opportunities the Netflix platform brings.
Extensive Rehearsals
Adding to the gravity of the occasion, WWE has reportedly left no detail to chance, conducting all-night rehearsals and fine-tuning every element well into the morning at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. These extensive preparations underscore the company’s commitment to delivering an unforgettable kickoff for this historic episode.
Triple H’s opening promo is designed to serve as both a celebration of WWE’s legacy and a declaration of intent for its bold future. The segment will not only set the tone for the night but also frame the company’s transition to the global streaming platform, ensuring fans feel connected to the journey that has led to this momentous debut.
The energy and significance of the introduction will carry forward into a stacked lineup, featuring major matches such as Roman Reigns vs. Solo Sikoa in Tribal Combat, CM Punk vs. Seth Rollins, and the launch of John Cena’s Farewell Tour.
As the curtain rises on this new chapter, WWE is making it clear that every detail—from the opening promo to the high-stakes matches—has been carefully crafted to resonate with fans old and new alike.
WWE RAW Lineup for January 6, 2025:
WWE stacked PPV-Caliber card for the first WWE Raw on Netlifx
Preview for tonight’s WWE Raw debut episode on Netflix
This star-studded cold open is a clear indication of what will be a jam-packed, exciting show tonight on Netflix. The show will feature:
The Rock To Appear:WWE’s Final Boss has confirmed he will be part of tonight’s historic event, with fans speculating what he has in store.
CM Punk vs. Seth Rollins: A highly anticipated bout between two bitter rivals that has been brewing since before Punk’s return to WWE in 2023.
Liv Morgan vs. Rhea Ripley (Women’s World Championship Match): Rhea Ripley seeks to regain the title she was never beaten for, and get revenge on Liv Morgan.
John Cena’s Farewell Tour: The legendary wrestler will begin his farewell tour on Raw, marking the start of his retirement from professional wrestling.
Drew McIntyre Vs. Jey Uso: ‘Main Event’ Jey has been the victim of beatdowns from McIntyre, but will the YEET army get payback in Los Angeles?
WWE Raw is set to debut on Netflix, and fans are curious about how commercials will factor into this new era. On The Press Box, WWE Chief Content Officer Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque offered insight into how ads will be a part of Raw going forward.
“Netflix is paying us a lot, and they’re in the business of making money. So, even as a subscription service, they need to sell ad time.”
While Netflix will still run commercials as part of Raw, they seemingly will not be as regular as the red brand time on broadcast TV. On the podcast, Levesque reassured fans that WWE’s partnership with Netflix will feature fewer commercials than traditional TV.
“There’s less commercial time, so it’s more manageable. It’ll take us a minute to get comfortable with the new format, but I think it’ll be a better experience for viewers.”
Levesque said it was “funny” that fans often complain about the number of commercials on TV, pointing out that its the same amount every week. While WWE Raw’s future on Netflix will be a “work in progress,” Levesque and his creative team are ready to “tackle” issues head-on and make the show’s new era on streaming a rounding success.
Tonight’s show will be a massive event with rare in-ring appearances by Roman Reigns and CM Punk, as well appearances by The Rock and John Cena. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest from tonight’s historic episode of WWE Raw from Los Angeles’ Intuit Dome.
Triple H has hinted that the WrestleMania main event is planned, but it remains subject to change. During an appearance on SI Media with Jimmy Traina, the WWE Chief Content Officer elaborated on the unpredictability of planning such a monumental event:
“Yes, with an asterisk, because I cannot tell you what happens between today and Las Vegas. People get hurt, things happen,” he explained.
Long gone are the days when WWE’s head honchos had WrestleMania’s main event locked in a year ahead of time. In today’s era, “plans change,” and the company has embraced a more flexible approach to adapt when circumstances demand it. While injuries can disrupt meticulously crafted plans, more often, changes stem from fans rallying behind a particular wrestler so passionately that the company is compelled to shift direction.
This exact scenario played out last year when The Rock returned to WWE, and Cody Rhodes made the surprising decision to step aside, allowing The Final Boss to use his Royal Rumble victory to challenge Roman Reigns at WrestleMania. However, fans weren’t having it. The hashtag #WeWantCody went viral, and the company ultimately pivoted, giving Cody the opportunity to “Finish the Story”—which he did.
Triple H went on to discuss the fluid nature of storytelling and booking in WWE:
“You get a phone call—‘Hey, would you ever consider doing this with me?’—or whatever it is, where you go, ‘Wow, that’s an amazing opportunity.’ Maybe I would go in a different direction, right? Sometimes you start to go down a road of a storyline, and you realize, ‘Like, this is not resonating the way I thought it would.’ Maybe something else would be bigger—and lo and behold, it is.”
Triple H emphasized the importance of planning but acknowledged the need for flexibility:
“I’m a big, put-pins-in-stuff-and-far-out-in-advance guy. We had a card for WrestleMania loosely written out in October, and that’s morphed a lot. We’re sitting down on a regular basis—weekly, probably—and talking about, ‘What do we believe the shift is? Where do we see the shift happening? What do we need to move around?’”
When asked if the current plan for the main event is locked in, he admitted uncertainty:
“Can I say I have something penciled in? Yes. Do I think it will stay? I think, but I’m not [sure].”
Triple H’s comments underline the constantly evolving nature of professional wrestling, where injuries, creative shifts, and unexpected opportunities can alter even the most well-laid plans.
WWE CCO Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque and members of the McMahon family celebrated the arrival of 2025 with Donald Trump at Mar-A-Lago. On X, Andrew Guliana, son of former New York City mayor Rudy Guliani, shared a photo with the Game.
Levesque didn’t attend the festivities alone, as Stephanie McMahon and Linda McMahon also attended. The elder McMahon has been touted by President-Elect Trump to lead the Department of Education despite no history in teaching. In 2010, McMahon stepped down from Connecticut’s Board of Education, and it was reported days later that she had falsely claimed her bachelors degree was in education (it is in French.)
The President-Elect and his wife Melania were also seen celebrating at Mar-A-Lago, though it’s unclear if Vince McMahon joined his daughter and son-in-law in Florida. The 79-year-old former Chairman of WWE is a known friend of Trump and is currently facing Janel Grant’s lawsuit alleging sexual trafficking.
While Triple H and the McMahons were spotted at Mar-A-Lago, WWE opts not to reference Trump on TV, despite his status as a WWE Hall of Famer. Given the ongoing toxic nature of politics, the Sports Entertainment juggernaut opts to avoid the topic altogether, despite Trump’s recent victory and McMahon’s apparent appointment in his cabinet.
