Sources: Sports Illustrate
Talking Smack was not canceled due to a lack of viewers.
The WWE Network show, popular among fans for its organic nature, was canceled by Vince McMahon.
McMahon, whose appearances at weekly WWE television shows is becoming increasingly irregular, was at TVs this past week. Sources close to the situation reported that McMahon was unhappy with the show and strongly believed it did not serve the company’s best interests.
Talking Smack generated headlines through its open, unscripted forum, including seminal moments for The Miz and greatly enhanced the recent heel turn for The Uso’s.
The unscripted nature of the show ultimately played a role in its removal. Despite plans for occasional Talking Smack shows after SmackDown-specific pay-per-views, the long-term plan, per McMahon, is to eradicate the program.
The cancelation, which was announced this past Friday, upset both talent and viewers.
RIP #TalkingSmack I enjoyed the freedom this show gave @wwe talent to showcase what they could do @ReneeYoungWWE brought the best out of all
— The Miz (@mikethemiz) July 15, 2017
I come online to support #SamiForSyria and find this out. I'm the GM!!! Nobody tells me anything!!! https://t.co/Dup7nBKvss
— Daniel Bryan (@WWEDanielBryan) July 14, 2017
Really disappointed about #TalkingSmack. We tried to make that show great. Guess I'll go back to welcoming my guest at this time.
— Renee Young (@ReneeYoungWWE) July 14, 2017
