8 Secrets We Learned From WWE's Leaked NXT TakeOver Script

5. Pre-Recorded Content

Shawn Michaels NXT Script
WWE Network

The above shot of Tommaso Ciampa came soon after a Survivor Series promo, and just before the Aleister Black/Johnny Gargano pre-match VTRs had started rolling. Such shots are commonplace on major WWE shows. These brief snippets are designed to show performers readying themselves for what's about to come, and they're very 'in the moment,' with the production seemingly beaming them live from backstage.

But there's nothing "live" about them. Per point 21 on the runsheet, these "LIVE SHOT" clips are "PRE-TAPED." Again, this shouldn't come as a massive surprise to anyone with a baseline knowledge of WWE production methods, but it's interesting nonetheless.

It happened again later in the night, with The Undisputed Era getting themselves warmed up for the main event. The producers have more important things to do than coordinate such minor segments during the live broadcast, so it makes sense from them to utilise a pre-recorded format that also accounts for any errors from the performers, not that we'd expect such things from guys as seasoned as this lot.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. 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.