Reason Behind Commercial-Free RAW, Big Backstage News

Credit: PWInsider.com

– There is still a lot of speculation that Ric Flair will be the next general manager of RAW, but as of Tuesday evening there was still nothing confirmed about who will play the role.

– USA Network is doing everything they can to increase ratings because network exec Bonnie Hammer wants to win the cable ratings race every single week now that the NBA Finals are done. The commercial-free RAW is completely USA Network's idea because they are in a ratings war with TNT and feel this will give them an edge. There is tremendous stress on the creative team right now because it's their job to put together the best show possible next week to impress the (expected) increased audience.

– Michael Hayes has been writing a large portion of CM Punk's promos, and also recently received a promotion.