Has WWE Enhanced Raw and SmackDown Since Vince McMahon’s Regular Presence?

The WWE, home to numerous beloved and hated characters, has seen changes not only in its roster but also in its storytelling approach. One significant aspect is Vince McMahon's regular appearance on Raw and SmackDown. This article explores whether the long-touted enhancement in these flagship shows has translated into improved viewership and fan satisfaction.

The Viewer's Perspective

Viewer numbers speak volumes, and the evidence suggests that despite Vince McMahon's return, Raw and SmackDown haven't seen the kind of improvement one might expect. While Vince's storytelling prowess can be fascinating and compelling, the overall ratings indicate that the current narrative structure is failing to consistently deliver the thrills and drama that fans crave.

From Ego to Impact

Decades ago, when Vince was at the forefront of every story, his ego and bombastic presence were essential to the narratives. But with time, Vince has learned the importance of balance. Today, his appearances on Raw and SmackDown are more sporadic and impactful. This shift has allowed the storytelling to focus more on the characters and their journeys, rather than being solely about Vince.

The Legacy of Ego

Going back to Vince's heydays, his characters were often the central figures, and the narratives were heavily influenced by his personal story arc. This approach sometimes delivered compelling content, but it was also criticized for overshadowing other talents and making the shows feel like a mere prolongation of Vince's narrative.

Beyond Ego: Focusing on Characters

Recently, Vince's appearances have been more strategic and less frequent. This approach has demonstrated that the storylines can thrive without constant Vince domination. For instance, the Becky Lynch storyline was initially a mishmash of Vince's ego-driven narrative and the storyline itself. However, as Vince's intervention decreased, the story sharpened and became more engaging for fans. This indicates a potential shift towards character-driven storytelling that fans appreciate.

Contrary to Popular Belief

Despite the assumption that Vince's regular presence would improve the shows, the reality is that the content has not seen a significant boost. This brings us to another pressing question: is Vince's regular presence really enhancing the quality of the shows or is it a formality?

The 'Ego vs. Best for Business' Debate

Wrestling fans often pit 'ego' against 'best for business.' Vince's current approach seems to favor 'best for business,' ensuring that the shows remain dynamic and engaging. This is evident in the evolution of storylines like the Becky Lynch saga, which became more compelling and intense as Vince's influence decreased.

Longtime Fans' Perspective

Longtime WWE fans often express dissatisfaction with the current storytelling trend. They feel that the shows lack the edge and excitement of Vince's earlier rule, where every match and story felt crucial to his narrative. However, with Vince taking a step back, the direction seems to be more about fostering a community where character development and performances take precedence over ego-driven story arcs.

The Future of WWE Storytelling

The success of WWE depends on its ability to tell compelling stories that resonate with its fans. Vince's return to regular appearances on Raw and SmackDown is a step towards creating a more balanced and engaging narrative. However, the long-term viability of this approach will depend on how well the storytelling evolves. It remains to be seen whether the current model of reduced Vince presence enhances the shows or if it's merely a short-term solution.

Enhancing Stories and Characters

Ultimately, the key to improving Raw and SmackDown lies in enhancing the stories and developing the characters. This has already been proven by the slight improvements in recent storylines. Fans are now clamoring for more meaningful character arcs and authentic storylines that don't revolve around Vince's ego. This shift has the potential to not only boost viewership but also to enrich the WWE brand.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Vince McMahon's regular presence on Raw and SmackDown might not have significantly improved the viewership or overall quality of the shows. Instead, the current strategy of balancing Vince's impact with character-driven storytelling has shown promise. If WWE continues to focus on developing strong, well-rounded characters and compelling story arcs, the future looks bright for the brand. Only time will tell if this approach truly transforms the shows into something truly exceptional.