After WWE switched to PG programming in 2008, they made several rule changes to follow the new rating. This included cutting down on bad language, getting rid of wild storylines, and making weapon use safer to appeal more to sponsors.
During the Attitude Era and Ruthless Aggression Era, blading was very common but that obviously changed once WWE shifted to PG. This is because one major change that was made after their PG transition was the complete ban on blading, which came with heavy fines for those who broke the rule.
However, during the Bad Blood events Hell in a Cell match, both CM Punk and Drew McIntyre ended up covered in blood. McIntyres injury was accidental when he was hit with a toolbox, while Punks cut was more planned. Obviously, CM Punk would win the match in the end as well.
According to Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, blading for important matches and storylines is now allowed in special cases. With Vince McMahon no longer in charge, WWE is allowing blood for key matches but wants to avoid overdoing it as much as possible.
We have also reported that WWE didnt plan on Drew McIntyre bleeding during the match, despite CM Punk hinting the same on television. It was noted that there was some panic backstage and at ringside because McIntyre was bleeding heavily, and they were worried about how bad the injury was. They considered bringing a doctor into the cage to stop the bleeding, but decided not to since it was a Hell in a Cell match. Instead, they wanted to clean the blood off McIntyre with a towel. McIntyre stayed in control, saying he would signal if he felt dizzy, and then they would quickly end the match. Since McIntyre didnt show any signs of a concussion, they were able to finish the match as planned.
WWE is currently entering a new era as we head towards 2025 and it is clear that bringing back blading is a step in the right direction for many fans, as they feel blood was very necessary for CM Punk and Drew McIntyres Hell in a Cell match. Therefore, well have to wait and see which other feud will ultimately lead to blading again, as fans are definitely excited for more violence in the future.
Do you believe WWE lifting the ban on bleeding under special circumstances is the step in the right direction for the company? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
