The latest wave of WWE releases has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, with fans and insiders alike questioning the rationale behind some of the decisions. One name, in particular, has left many scratching their heads—legendary manager Paul Ellering.
Ellering, known for guiding iconic teams like the Road Warriors and The Authors of Pain (AOP), was among the more surprising cuts. His departure has led to widespread speculation about WWE’s creative direction, with former head writer Vince Russo and veteran journalist Bill Apter openly expressing their confusion over the move.
Vince Russo Can’t Understand WWE’s Decision
During a recent episode of Sportskeeda’s The Wrestling Outlaws, Vince Russo voiced his disbelief at Ellering’s release. Despite Ellering’s extensive experience and managerial success, WWE barely utilized him—something Russo found particularly baffling.
“Very, very smart guy, but again, Chris, it’s like, I don’t understand why they would bring him in if they weren’t gonna do anything with him. I mean, he did nothing. He literally just stood there and did absolutely nothing, which I don’t understand whatsoever. You got a guy like Paul Ellering that has been around as long as he has with the knowledge he has, and then you bring him in and do nothing with him?”
(Sportskeeda’s The Wrestling Outlaws, [4:16 onwards])
This sentiment echoes the frustration of many fans who expected Ellering to play a pivotal role in WWE’s tag team division. His ability to elevate talent was evident with The Authors of Pain, a duo that flourished under his guidance in NXT. However, once they were moved to the main roster, creative decisions seemingly derailed their momentum.
Could Paul Ellering Have Managed The War Raiders?
Veteran wrestling journalist Bill Apter also weighed in on WWE’s decision, suggesting that Ellering could have been an asset to another powerhouse tag team—the War Raiders (Viking Raiders).
During an episode of Sportskeeda’s SmackTalk, Apter lamented Ellering’s departure and pointed out what could have been a perfect pairing:
“I think the WWE Tag Team Champions, The War Raiders, would have been served really well by Precious Paul Ellering being in their corner. He is the person, as you know, brought the Road Warriors into prominence. He was such a great part of that, and I mentioned to my contacts at WWE, I said, ‘Man, he would have been so great with the War Raiders.’ So yeah, I am sorry to have seen him go.”
(sportskeeda’s SmackTalk, [2:50 onwards])
The Viking Raiders, despite their in-ring dominance, have struggled with consistent booking in WWE. Apter’s idea of placing Ellering in their corner makes sense—his managerial expertise and credibility could have helped re-establish them as a dominant force.
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