The wrestling world was hit with significant news at the start of 2024, as Kevin Dunn, WWE’s Executive Producer & Chief, Global Television Distribution, bid farewell to the company after an impressive 40-year tenure as Vince McMahon’s right-hand man in production. The January 1st episode of WWE RAW marked the historic occasion of the first-ever WWE television episode without Dunn’s involvement, leaving a void that has been a constant in the wrestling landscape for most fans’ lifetimes.
Amidst Dunn’s departure, speculation has arisen about the possibility of additional WWE departures, particularly with Vince McMahon seemingly taking a step back from day-to-day operations. Ringside News founder Steve Carrier relayed this speculation on Twitter, suggesting that changes in personnel might follow Dunn’s exit.
“Heard there is some speculation that with Vince McMahon seemingly being removed from the day-to-day that others may be swapped out of their positions as well.”
Dave Meltzer, during Wrestling Observer Radio, added insights into the situation. While acknowledging the potential for others to leave after Dunn, Meltzer hinted that a mass exodus might not be immediate. The concern is that a sudden overhaul could negatively impact the stock market. Instead, any changes are expected to occur gradually, with a one-at-a-time approach over an extended period.
“If Kevin Dunn is gone, does that mean other people are gone? The idea is that Paul coming in and emptying out everyone at once would not go well stock market wise. So, it’s going to be a slow process that this will happen. It will be one at a time and it will not be soon.”
WWE CEO Nick Khan addressed Dunn’s departure in a memo, recognizing his immense contributions in building WWE into a global sports entertainment juggernaut. The memo expressed gratitude to Dunn and affirmed his everlasting connection to the WWE family. Khan, along with Paul (presumably referring to Paul Levesque, aka Triple H), planned to meet with the media team and Superstars to discuss the company’s future direction.
As WWE navigates the uncharted waters of 2024 without Kevin Dunn, the wrestling community is left anticipating potential shifts in the company’s leadership and production dynamics. The departure of such a key figure after four decades brings an air of uncertainty and excitement about what lies ahead for WWE in the new year.
