How Triple H Can Save WWE 205 Live

by Andy H Murray
Triple H
WWE.com

205 failed as 'Little Guy Raw,' and while Enzo Amore's arrival created buzz initial, there was no upturn in viewership. Vince McMahon's mission to rebuild the show as a more character-driven enterprise would have failed regardless of whether he was released or not. Raw and SmackDown already scratch this itch, and while it's hard to blame the Chairman for reverting to the booking technique he knows best, it's clear that the Cruiserweights are better off under Triple H's stewardship.

'The Game' recognises what needs to be done. 205 isn't yet on-par with NXT, but it's being rebuilt in developmental's mould, and already feels like a brand reborn. The wrestlers are finally free to express themselves again, and the Cruiserweight Classic is no longer an echo of the past.

Drake Maverick, like William Regal, is a General Manager who isn't here to steal the spotlight, but rule his land with refreshing fairness. The Title tournament is a direct call-back to the CWC. Guys like Drew Gulak and Jack Gallagher have shed gimmicks that, while entertaining, kept them firmly rooted in the midcard. Cedric Alexander, Mustafa Ali, TJP, and countless others have genuine purpose again.

These are the perfect foundations on which to build 205 Live's bright new future. Far from dead in the water, it has a tremendous chance of prospering under Triple H's leadership, and if NXT is anything to go by, it'll soon find success.

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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.