WWE Hall of Famer Paul Heyman appeared on The Ariel Helwani Show this week, shedding light on his current influence as part of WWE’s creative operations. Speaking openly about his behind-the-scenes mentorship and involvement in long-term storytelling, Heyman discussed how his role supports WWE’s evolving narrative approach.
The Origin and Meaning Behind Heyman’s “Wise Man” Nickname
Heyman reflected on how his nickname, “The Wise Man,” was first coined by Roman Reigns during The Bloodline story arc. Though fans may consider it merely a character title, Heyman confirmed it also represents his real-life position as an experienced advisor backstage.
A lot of people come to me because I’m the old guy now, because I’ve survived so many regimes,
Heyman said.
I worked for Vince McMahon Sr. as a photographer. This is now the third or fourth generation of a regime that I’ve worked for.
The nickname pays tribute to the famed
“Three Wise Men of the East”
— Captain Lou Albano, Freddie Blassie, and The Grand Wizard — linking Heyman’s influence in wrestling’s past to his current role guiding future talent.
Heyman’s Collaborative Work Under Paul Levesque’s Leadership
Describing himself as serving “at the pleasure” of Chief Creative Officer Paul Levesque, known as Triple H, Heyman provides input mainly when called upon, especially on character growth and big-picture plans.
Some days I’m not needed that much… and other days, a lot of talents need a lot of direction, or motivation, or understanding about their performance,
he explained. Heyman emphasized his focus is on helping talent embody their characters emotionally rather than scripting dialogue strictly.
It’s not what you say, but how you say it… The words are there, but it’s all about: What’s the emotion involved? What are we selling?
Mentoring WWE’s Next Generation of WrestleMania Main Eventers
Heyman confirmed he offers advice to any talent who asks but has concentrated especially on a few prospects he believes will headline multiple WrestleMania events. He cited Bron Breakker as a guaranteed future main event star.
Bron Breakker and I are on camera together because I was working so closely with him behind the scenes… That’s a guaranteed WrestleMania main eventer.
Heyman expressed similar confidence in Jacob Fatu, labeling him a future WrestleMania headliner. He also identified Rhea Ripley as a rare talent who could reach generational status, depending on how her storylines and matches develop.
WWE’s Shift to Long-Term, Multi-Year Storyline Planning
Heyman highlighted WWE’s transformation from last-minute creative decisions to carefully crafted narratives spanning years. He attends meetings focused on plotting events well past the current WrestleMania.
When we start talking about next year’s WrestleMania, or the year after WrestleMania, or the year after that… I go to those meetings,
Heyman revealed.
This Mania is the pathway to the next year’s Mania, which is the pathway to the next year’s Mania.
The success of The Bloodline storyline has encouraged WWE to plan intricate, layered stories that reward dedicated fans who follow over multiple years.
Heyman’s Continuing Impact on WWE’s Future Direction
As Paul Levesque’s influence grows within WWE, Paul Heyman remains a vital creative mentor and strategist behind the scenes. His work with the latest generation of stars, such as Bron Breakker and Jacob Fatu, positions him to shape WWE’s main event landscape for years ahead. Heyman’s unique blend of experience, insight, and guidance continues to contribute significantly to the company’s storytelling ambitions.
