WWE's Creative Struggles in 2026: Five Superstars Hampered by Lackluster Booking
Forbes reports that WWE's programming quality has declined significantly in 2026 after a boom period from late 2022 to mid-2025, with critics calling the booking "soulless" and "uninspired." The article identifies five notable wrestlers—including Jordynne Grace, Ilja Dragunov, and The Bloodline—who are being held back by directionless creative planning under Triple H's regime. The downturn matters because it affects both WWE's flagship Raw and SmackDown shows and raises questions about how the company develops its talent.
WWE's creative direction has become a significant point of criticism in professional wrestling circles during 2026, marking a notable shift from the company's strongest period since the Attitude Era (late 2022 to mid-2025). Multiple industry figures, including former WWE star Stevie Richards, MMA analyst Ariel Helwani, and Wrestling Observer's Dave Meltzer, have publicly criticized the booking as lacking inspiration and originality. Forbes identifies five wrestlers struggling under this creative regime: Jordynne Grace, who debuted with high expectations but has been sidelined without explanation; Ilja Dragunov, an elite in-ring performer reportedly not viewed as a "top guy" despite his stellar performances; The Bloodline, which has been recycled as a storyline since 2020; and others facing directionless booking. The article suggests that while some talents like Oba Femi and Trick Williams are breaking through, many others are being failed by Triple H's creative team, which appears to be playing it safe with mundane, repetitive storylines that make the flagship shows difficult to watch week after week.
What different sources said
- ForbesCenter
5 WWE Superstars Who Need Better Booking
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