Bruce Prichard to replace Eric Bischoff as WWE Executive Director

Eric Bischoff has apparently stepped down from his role as Executive Director of SmackDown.

In what is being perceived as a major surprise, Eric Bischoff has stepped down as Executive Director of WWE Friday Night SmackDown, and has left the company. In an equally surprising announcement, Bruce Prichard has been named as his replacement.

WWE announced on Tuesday afternoon that Prichard would be taking over the role. He will report directly to WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, and oversee everything creative on Friday Night SmackDown.

It comes as a shock, as Bischoff was named SmackDown‘s Executive Director in only late June. Soon after his hiring, rumors began circulating about him missing meetings, and issues related to him having not worked in a live television environment since the WCW days. He disputed those claims on Twitter and in various interviews, but he did not have the impact that a lot of people thought he would have.

Bischoff and Paul Heyman were named Executive Directors of SmackDown and Raw, respectively. Heyman’s grip on creative was almost immediately felt, and he has since been praised for his work. Joining Brock Lesnar on Friday nights should be interesting, as it could give him a chance to meet with Pritchard regularly, lend a creative hand if needed and get some advice for his role as well.

Prichard comes with impressive resume, with nearly a nearly four-decade career in pro wrestling to his credit. Having done everything from the “Brother Love” character, to announcing and being an agent, Pritchard has plenty of knowledge and has the tools to make Friday Night SmackDown a success.