WWE Executive Defends Reducing Match Count in PLEs: Bruce Prichard's Perspective
The evolution of WWE's Premium Live Events (PLEs) has sparked debate among fans, but one executive believes this shift is a step in the right direction. In the past, these events were known as Pay-Per-Views (PPVs), a monthly occurrence with unique themes and settings, such as Survivor Series, SummerSlam, and WrestleMania. Each PPV featured a variety of matches, from gimmick matches to major title contests, with storylines and feuds building up across the roster. These events were a significant part of the wrestling landscape, often leading to major changes in wrestlers' storylines and title reigns, which would then impact TV shows in the following weeks.
PPVs were typically three hours long, with up to ten matches on the card, catering to a wide range of wrestlers, from low-carders to main eventers. However, the streaming era has brought about a change in the way these events are consumed and presented. With the flexibility of streaming, WWE now offers fewer matches, extending the event's timeframe to five matches. This shift has caused controversy among some fans, but WWE executive Bruce Prichard argues that this approach has its merits.
In a recent episode of his YouTube show, 'Something to Wrestle,' Bruce Prichard defended the decision to reduce the number of matches, stating, 'Less is more.' He explained that with a lower match count, fans are more likely to remember the key moments from the event. Prichard believes that a packed card can be overwhelming for viewers, making it harder to retain information. He added, 'When you put so many things in a ten-match card, you might remember the main event, but there could be an angle in the third match or an incredible match that you forget due to the abundance of other content.'
Prichard also addressed the changing landscape of the business, where talent is not paid based on PPV buys and there are no strict time allotments. He mentioned that the streaming aspect of PLEs has shifted the focus, allowing for a more relaxed pace. Prichard emphasized the value of regular TV shows, stating that they are just as important as PLEs, especially with the potential for a large audience. He said, 'Television is just as valuable as PLEs with rights fees. Being on screen to a massive audience is just as significant as being on a PPV.'
This perspective highlights the evolving nature of the wrestling industry and the importance of adapting to new consumption methods. While some fans may disagree, Bruce Prichard's insights provide a unique take on the current state of WWE's PLEs, inviting further discussion and debate among wrestling enthusiasts.
