The recent "boom period" for WWE is reportedly "definitely cooling off," characterized by a noticeable decline in advance ticket sales, signaling an end to the company's peak momentum, according to Wrestling Observer's Dave Meltzer. This decline is mirrored by a growing discontent among the loyal fanbase, who have begun to label the current era—starting with the Raw debut on Netflix—the "Ruthless Depression" Era, a play on the company's past "Ruthless Aggression" period.
This fan backlash, as voiced by groups like Wrestling Allilance, stems from several key grievances: persistently high ticket prices, disappointing booking and poor storylines, and the burden of having to subscribe to multiple streaming services just to watch the company’s full programming slate. Compounding these issues is a perceived creative vacuum following WrestleMania 40, which fans saw as the "season finale of the Roman Reigns era." The company failed to capitalize on the subsequent momentum, with some commentators arguing that an "extremely ill advised Cena heel turn killed all the work Cody did to keep the momentum going."
Adding to the controversy, TKO President Mark Shapiro has endorsed a corporate strategy shift, stating that WWE must move "past" the events created by Vince McMahon's legacy. Shapiro praised the new leadership under Nick Khan and Triple H, citing the creation of the new "Wrestlepalooza" event as a "real winner" that succeeded in merchandise and securing its IP. This controversial call to move beyond the company's established core, coupled with the ongoing creative and financial frustrations, reinforces the notion that WWE is struggling to retain the support of its loyal fandom as it transitions into what fans have defined as the "Ruthless Depression."

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