What To Expect From Paul Heyman's WWE Raw Tonight

Big changes are coming to WWE's flagship show... but when?

Paul Heyman Raw
WWE

News that Paul Heyman and Eric Bischoff had taken on new WWE roles as Executive Directors of Raw and SmackDown respectively sent wrestling media into overdrive last week, with reports comparing their positions to that which Triple H occupies in NXT sparking hopes of a creative renaissance.

Though it was reported that Bischoff and Heyman wouldn't be appearing onscreen in any this capacity, the situation snowballed when Dallas' American Airlines Center advertised the duo for this week's TV, selling the shows with "see what Paul Heyman/Eric Bischoff has in store for Raw/SmackDown!" as taglines.

Unfortunately, it looks like anyone praying for a revolution is going to be disappointed - at least for now.

Advertisement

Pro Wrestling Sheet have reported that the Heyman/Bischoff ads weren't supposed to be distributed. On top of this, Dave Meltzer believes that Bischoff isn't booked for SmackDown, and that the duo will start their roles "imminently" rather than "immediately."

This doesn't rule Heyman appearing on Raw as Executive Director entirely, but it shouldn't be expected, and neither should major changes to established formulae.

Advertisement

WWE.com's Raw preview currently advertises Bobby Lashley vs. Braun Strowman in a Last Man Standing match, a first-time tag battle between the New Day and Viking Raiders, new developments in the Roman Reigns/Undertaker alliance, and more. Our fingers are crossed for an immediate creative upturn, but it looks like it could take time.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.