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WWE has postponed Tuesday’s television tapings following a developmental wrestler testing positive for COVID-19.
The company originally planned to tape the June 22 episode of RAW, and June 26 episode of SmackDown. Instead, WWE has brought in medical personnel to begin testing everyone for COVID-19.
Precautionary #COVID19 testing! Gotta make sure we’re healthy and safe to entertain the globe every week!
I’m telling you, this test is really not bad at all! No pain, just a weird feeling! So don’t hesitate in case you need to take your test! #StaySafe #StayHYPED pic.twitter.com/sx3ib3f5yB
— Dean Muhtadi (@MojoRawleyWWE) June 16, 2020
According to Dave Meltzer of The Wrestling Observer, WWE is planning on having an extremely busy day on Wednesday, taping two episodes of NXT. as well as next week’s episodes of RAW, SmackDown, Main Event, 205 Live.
The company’s handling of the positive test has been criticized by many, with talent being made aware at the same time as the rest of the world. WWE issued a press release on behalf of shortly before RAW went off-air.
WWE allowed a select number of local fans and friends of talent at the taping Monday, instructing them to not wear masks to the event.
“They just told people, if you want to wear a mask, don’t come”
On top of nobody finding out about the COVID failure until it hit social media, I was told by multiple sources that WWE would not allow anyone in the crowd at the RAW taping Monday to wear masks.
— Bryan Alvarez (@bryanalvarez) June 16, 2020
Previously, WWE has not performed any COVID-19 testing, emphasizing the their rigorous pandemic level cleaning, temperature checks, and questionnaires given to everyone who enters the facility.
The company’s television taping plans may be adjusted again based on the results from today’s testing. As more details are known, an update will be provided.