The WWE’s COVID-19 cluster could be a lot bigger than previous thought or has been announced.
According to Bryan Alvarez of Wrestling Observer Live, the WWE could have approximately 20 to 30 or more cases of the virus running through the company now.
The number of those who are ill and those who have removed from tapings due to contact with others inside and outside of the company is seemingly playing havoc with WWE’s tapings at the Performance Center in Florida and the current WWE storylines.
Jamie Noble, extra ‘The Ultimate Pusher’ Tyreke, Renee Young, Adam Pearce and Kayla Braxton have all announced publicly that they have tested positive for the virus.
Last Friday, an anonymous source has come forward claiming WWE’s talent relations department is instructing wrestlers who have contracted the COVID-19 virus that they are forbidden to discuss their personal situation publicly.
Dolph Ziggler commented to Sports Illustrated saying: “You will absolutely see me on Raw. We’ve been really cautious with everything, really washing down the ring and keeping everyone isolated. When we go to work, we’re tested. If we get a negative test, then we go to work. Even several months ago, when we weren’t exactly sure what we were being told to do by the CDC on a day-to-day basis, I just wanted to play it safe so I’ve been wearing a mask wherever I can. That’s in the gym, walking into a CVS, even during my walks outside—it’s making me work on my breath a little better.”
Kevin Owens who has bowed out of recent tapings posted an emotional plea yesterday.
Let’s try this. pic.twitter.com/SJXJSpNfd7
— Kevin (@FightOwensFight) June 29, 2020
Reports state that those arriving for the NXT tapings were tested for the virus today and this message was sent to them beforehand:
“As a reminder, wearing masks, sanitizing and social distancing will be required at the Performance Center this week and going forward. You’ll be required to wear a mask upon entering and we ask that you adhere to these requirements in order to minimize risks.”
Eric Bugenhagen (Rik Bugez) tweeted this out confirming the testing:
We all get our brains poked to get tested before tapings now. When the test is negative, I feel ok taking my mask off for 10 seconds to convey some emotion for the sake of entertainment. Without facial expression, they might as well have mannequin dummies behind the plexiglass
— Eric Bugenhagen (@rikbugez) June 30, 2020