Exclusive: Backstage Reactions To HBO-WWE Story From John Oliver

HBO and John Oliver took aim at WWE on Sunday, and both WWE and its superstars took notice.

Fightful Select reported Sunday afternoon that HBO’s “Last Week Tonight” would take a look at the independent contractor status of WWE wrestlers. When Fightful reached out to several Superstars for their thoughts, word of the episode made the rounds.

As WWE had mentioned in their statement today, they had been contacted for comment on several of the points. Fightful confirmed that several others within the wrestling world — including for competing promotions and media outlets — were also contacted. Some of the subject matter was disclosed and checked for clarity.

As reported on Fightful Select earlier today, Fightful spoke to several members of the WWE roster about the episode. While it was a hot topic at yesterday’s Hershey live event, it didn’t seem like a “must watch,” as several we heard from skipped out on it.

One (who admitted they only read the recap online) considered the piece “hacky” and said that “at least he’s good at saying he’s a fan.” Another told us they watched, and enjoyed the segment and considered it informative, but said that the people who helped him research the piece probably should have let him know about Roman Reigns‘ condition before delivering a now-controversial joke about him. Outside of that, the long-time talent said it was a “home run.”

Fightful will look to speak to more who work for WWE about their thoughts.