Report: WWE Suspended Drake Wuertz Earlier This Year

WWE referee Drake Wuertz has become notorious for sharing his extreme views. The official previously had a Parler account and followed the likes of Tommy Robinson and the Proud Boys and he is also a volunteer for "anti-child trafficking" charity Operation Underground Railroad.

As part of his "anti-child trafficking" work, Wuertz called into the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners meeting yesterday and claimed "forcing and normalising face coverings only makes it easier for sex traffickers to target kids."

Wuertz's extreme views have had consequences within WWE, though. Fightful Select reported that Wuertz was suspended earlier this year and was barred from entering the Capitol Wrestling Center for a "short period of time." WWE higher-ups were "horrified" after reading the David Bixenspan article about the referee's views and their alarm has only worsened since yesterday's county commissioners meeting.

As a result of his views, Wuertz had "significant heat" with many at the Performance Center but he has reportedly "subdued" his mannerisms since his return. Many within NXT are surprised he is still employed, though, and they believe his extreme views may have actually helped him keep his job.

Beyond being suspended, Wuertz has been stripped of many of his duties in recent months. He was formerly the head referee in NXT, but Darryl Sharma is now in that position. Wuertz was also under consideration to time NXT matches, but Scott Armstrong was brought back from furlough and given that role after lobbying from Road Dogg. Wuertz was passed over for the backup timing position as well and DA Brewer took up that role instead.