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New details on Shawn Michaels and Bruce Prichard’s WWE futures

Posted: Nov 4th 2026 By: Ian Carey

WWE sources are reportedly pushing back on reports that Shawn Michaels would take over Bruce Prichard’s role following WrestleMania 43 in 2027.

Last week, PWInsider reported that Prichard was expected to retire from his role as Executive Director of Creative Writing & Talent but would remain with the company in a consulting capacity. The outlet later reported that Michaels was expected to take over Prichard’s position.

However, Fightful Select reported on Tuesday that WWE sources have disputed those plans.

Fightful Select wrote:

There was speculation that Shawn Michaels would take over Bruce Prichard’s role, but WWE sources told FightfulSelect.com that this isn’t the case.

Fightful additionally reported that AJ Styles is expected to gain more influence in WWE scouting, while Bobby Roode has been considered for a role similar to those held by Prichard or Michael Hayes. Roode’s potential role remains far from finalized, however.

Fightful also reported on Tuesday that Prichard expects to work remotely rather than retire from WWE. He is said to be considering a six-month transition away from his current role as he prepares for neck surgery. An existing neck injury is believed to make travel difficult for the longtime company executive.

The current belief is that the PWInsider report is more accurate than the Fightful report. However, there is no timeframe for these changes, no changes are expected before WrestleMania 43, and things could change between now and then.