In a surprising twist, two of WWE’s backstage legends, Bruce Prichard and Michael P.S. Hayes, are taking some well-deserved time off from the wrestling whirlwind. According to wrestling’s own crystal ball reader Dave Meltzer, the two pillars of WWE creative are on leaves of absence, but don’t start planning their farewell tours just yet! WWE insiders emphasize these leaves are temporary, meaning neither Prichard nor Hayes will be gone long enough to lose their favorite spots at catering.
While details are thin, it’s reported that Prichard, WWE’s Executive Director and the man who’s been glued to Vince McMahon’s side since dinosaurs roamed Stamford, is dealing with a family emergency. Hayes, meanwhile, is tending to unspecified “personal issues,” which could range from needing a change of scenery to tracking down his infamous glittery fanny pack.
With these two icons of WWE lore taking a breather, backstage whispers are swirling. But fear not! It appears there’s no “changing of the guard” behind the scenes, meaning Prichard’s spot under the WWE creative umbrella is safe. His bond with the big boss Vince is apparently stronger than Gorilla Monsoon’s old chair. And as for Hayes, his absence became clear when he didn’t oversee The Bloodline’s match at WWE Crown Jewel. Stepping in for him was none other than James Gibson (AKA Jamie Noble), who probably had to temporarily adopt at least one of Hayes’ signature hats to fill the role.
Prichard and Hayes have left an indelible mark on WWE, so this “leave of absence” is probably less of an exit and more of a tactical retreat. Rest assured, they’ll both be back before you can say, “What a maneuver!”