WWE Relaxes PG Guidelines For Top Stars

There has been some discussion about growing frustration among talent in WWE regarding a perceived double standard when it comes to The Rock’s use of adult language in his promos. While The Rock has been known to incorporate strong language and edgier content in his television appearances, other wrestlers in the company have reportedly faced restrictions on using similar language during their promos.

With Triple H now leading WWE’s creative vision, there has been a shift toward a more mature approach in storytelling. This change has been exemplified by moments such as allowing Cody Rhodes to bleed during an angle with The Rock, a practice that had been previously restricted.

Additionally, both Cody Rhodes and CM Punk have incorporated more adult language in their promos, a change from the previous regime’s stricter guidelines. Even Paul Heyman used explicit language during his Hall of Fame speech. These changes reflect a new creative direction in WWE, allowing for more flexibility and adult-oriented content that harkens back to the style of the Attitude Era.

According to Dave Meltzer’s latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, there has been a change in WWE’s approach to language used by talent. A memo was sent to talent reminding them to keep their language PG weeks ago, which suggests that there has been some tightening of restrictions on the content of promos.

However, despite this directive, it appears that top talent may have more leeway in their language, as staying within PG limits may not apply to them. This change may indicate that the company is aiming to balance a more mature approach for its top stars while maintaining a more family-friendly tone for the rest of the roster.

“We were told that everything is up in the air as far as going forward as there is a recognition that going farther in this direction will draw a younger audience, as it did 25 years ago, but they also want to not be in a position where sponsors are squeamish so it’s a balancing act. But if Rock doesn’t have 100 percent carte blanche to do what he wants, he has at last close to that.”

It remains unclear what the long-term mandate will be for the entire roster regarding language and content in promos and segments. Fans and talent alike will need to keep an eye out for any further developments or official announcements from WWE on this matter.