Initial reactions about Paul Heyman's replacement (Patreon)

Fightful has already spoke to a dozen wrestlers about Paul Heyman's replacement in his spot on WWE Raw as it was revealed Bruce Prichard would be heading up that branch, too. We've heard from a variety of performers both in and out of WWE, with responses landing all over the map. General disappointment and surprise from some, to others indicating they could see the writing on the wall of late. It should be noted that nobody we've talked to said that they knew of the change before WWE announced it on Twitter.

Younger wrestlers we've spoken to were particularly disappointed, as Heyman was well known for wanting new blood on his shows.

 In a follow up, none of the wrestlers or staff we've spoken to has heard why the replacement was made. We actually had wrestlers inquiring and speculating alike, stating that "there's always a scapegoat" when things go wrong. However, none of those we spoke to could point to a blow up, argument or any particular situation that unfolded that was the catalyst for the move. If there was one, it hasn't made the rounds backstage yet. 

UPDATE: Fightful can confirm that the decision was a Vince McMahon one, but Heyman and WWE were said to have remained on good terms. Fightful Select will have a ton of more info over the next week or so.