Creative Shake-Up Just Weeks Before WrestleMania 41
Summary
– WWE Hall of Famer Road Dogg Brian James joins SmackDown as Co-Lead Writer
– John Swikata continues in a leadership role alongside James
– The move signals a shift in creative direction heading into WrestleMania 41
WWE has made a major change to SmackDown’s creative team, appointing Road Dogg Brian James as the new Co-Lead Writer. He now shares writing duties with John Swikata, who has handled creativity since late 2024.
This marks James’ return to SmackDown, where he previously worked as head writer in 2017. His views on WWE’s booking style have been well-documented, including his stance on 50/50 booking. With WrestleMania 41 approaching, his influence on storylines could bring noticeable shifts in direction.
Swikata, who stepped into a lead role after Ryan Callahan’s departure, has been credited with shaping SmackDown’s recent success. With James added to the creative team, the brand’s storytelling could see adjustments leading into WWE’s biggest event of the year.
The timing of this shake-up suggests WWE is focused on having strong leadership in place for WrestleMania season. Whether James’ return leads to fresh changes or a continuation of SmackDown’s momentum remains to be seen.
