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There's Just One Problem...: True Tales from the Former, One-Time, 7th Most Powerful Person in WWE
Former WWE head writer Brian Gewirtz brings readers behind the scenes for an unprecedented look at the chaotic, surreal, unbelievable backstage world of the WWE.
With untold stories from a career spanning over 15 years and featuring the biggest names and controversial moments in wrestling history, THERE'S JUST ONE PROBLEM is an honest, unflinching look on how an introverted life-long fan unexpectedly became one the most powerful men in all of professional wrestling.
For decades wrestling was shrouded in secrecy. It had larger than life personalities, bone crunching physicality and jaw-dropping theatrics but backstage it was an industry devoid of outsiders. Then in 1999, after working together on a special for MTV, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson turned to 26-year old television writer Brian Gewirtz and asked “You ever consider writing for WWE?” That question, and its answer, would have a profound effect on both of their lives for years to come.
THERE'S JUST ONE PROBLEM is a story about perseverance, tenacity, and steel chairs. Most writers in the WWE last for a matter of months; Gewirtz was there for over 15 years, writing some of most memorable and infamous storylines in WWE history (covering the “Attitude Era”, the “Ruthless Aggression Era” and into the “PG” and “Reality” eras).
Throughout this journey Gewirtz found himself becoming both friend and antagonist to some of the biggest names in WWE history – Stone Cold Steve Austin, John Cena, Stephanie McMahon, Bill Goldberg, Paul Heyman, Chris Jericho, Shawn Michaels, and the two men who he worked the most closely with WWE Chairman Vince McMahon and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. These men not only shaped his life professionally but also personally, forcing him to grow and change both as a writer and a human being.
So how does a lifelong fan and outsider break through to become the ultimate insider? How does a low-key personality deal directly with his boss, the most brash, unpredictable “alpha male” on the planet, WWE Chairman Vince McMahon? How does one gain respect in a locker room that wants nothing more than to see him disappear? Where does one go when every year in wrestling takes you further away from the writing career you always wanted? Taking advice from his idol, the late “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, when you’re so full of fear, there’s only one way to push become fearless.
With untold stories from a career spanning over 15 years and featuring the biggest names and controversial moments in wrestling history, THERE'S JUST ONE PROBLEM is an honest, unflinching look on how an introverted life-long fan unexpectedly became one the most powerful men in all of professional wrestling.
For decades wrestling was shrouded in secrecy. It had larger than life personalities, bone crunching physicality and jaw-dropping theatrics but backstage it was an industry devoid of outsiders. Then in 1999, after working together on a special for MTV, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson turned to 26-year old television writer Brian Gewirtz and asked “You ever consider writing for WWE?” That question, and its answer, would have a profound effect on both of their lives for years to come.
THERE'S JUST ONE PROBLEM is a story about perseverance, tenacity, and steel chairs. Most writers in the WWE last for a matter of months; Gewirtz was there for over 15 years, writing some of most memorable and infamous storylines in WWE history (covering the “Attitude Era”, the “Ruthless Aggression Era” and into the “PG” and “Reality” eras).
Throughout this journey Gewirtz found himself becoming both friend and antagonist to some of the biggest names in WWE history – Stone Cold Steve Austin, John Cena, Stephanie McMahon, Bill Goldberg, Paul Heyman, Chris Jericho, Shawn Michaels, and the two men who he worked the most closely with WWE Chairman Vince McMahon and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. These men not only shaped his life professionally but also personally, forcing him to grow and change both as a writer and a human being.
So how does a lifelong fan and outsider break through to become the ultimate insider? How does a low-key personality deal directly with his boss, the most brash, unpredictable “alpha male” on the planet, WWE Chairman Vince McMahon? How does one gain respect in a locker room that wants nothing more than to see him disappear? Where does one go when every year in wrestling takes you further away from the writing career you always wanted? Taking advice from his idol, the late “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, when you’re so full of fear, there’s only one way to push become fearless.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published August 16, 2022
173 people are currently reading
981 people want to read
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May 31, 2022
What's it like to work for WWE (formerly WWF)? More specifically, what's it like to work for Vince McMahon, WWE's chairman? Gewirtz pulls the curtain back and invites readers into the surreal world of professional wrestling (or "sports entertainment," as WWE bills it these days), as seen through the wide eyes of a 26-year-old screenwriter (wrestling is scripted, but don't call it fake). Gewirtz is thrown into the deep end and must learn to swim with the sharks. "There's Just One Problem" is equal parts hilarious and harrowing.
In this case, the "sharks" are frequently larger-than-life wrestlers such as Undertaker and The Rock, Vince McMahon and his family, and (occasionally) outside writers and producers who seem hellbent on disrupting the system to the point of breaking. Gewirtz's anxiety is palpable from the first page, as "the boys" backstage razz him. There are so many unwritten rules that it's impossible not to run afoul of them, and Gewirtz constantly finds himself in hot water with men two, three, or four times his size.
I've always dreamed of a career writing for WWE, but for some reason they've never returned my calls. After reading this memoir, I'm...kind of relieved? I wouldn't last a half hour inside a high-pressure cooker like WWE. There were many points where I feared for the author's health and safety, despite this being a memoir -- he could have written it from a hospital bed, for all I know. How Gewirtz lasted 16 days -- let alone 16 years! -- inside the madhouse of WWE is something of a miracle, given the hair-trigger temper of his former boss and the complicated backstage politics.
It should come as no surprise that a writer responsible for some of the best segments in WWE history has produced an equally entertaining book. While it's definitely a "warts and all" memoir, Gewirtz isn't here to settle old scores. (Except in the case of ex-creative director Vince Russo, who gets lightly -- and deservedly -- roasted.) He praises most of the talent, and strikes up a working relationship with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson that continues to this day.
For the IWC (Internet Wrestling Community, or hardcore fans who follow "the dirtsheets") there are plenty of tales told here out of school for the first time. For casual or non-wrestling fan readers, Gewirtz defines wrestling terminology as he uses it -- there's plenty of context, too, so even casual or lapsed wrestling fans will have no trouble keeping up with the story.
In this case, the "sharks" are frequently larger-than-life wrestlers such as Undertaker and The Rock, Vince McMahon and his family, and (occasionally) outside writers and producers who seem hellbent on disrupting the system to the point of breaking. Gewirtz's anxiety is palpable from the first page, as "the boys" backstage razz him. There are so many unwritten rules that it's impossible not to run afoul of them, and Gewirtz constantly finds himself in hot water with men two, three, or four times his size.
I've always dreamed of a career writing for WWE, but for some reason they've never returned my calls. After reading this memoir, I'm...kind of relieved? I wouldn't last a half hour inside a high-pressure cooker like WWE. There were many points where I feared for the author's health and safety, despite this being a memoir -- he could have written it from a hospital bed, for all I know. How Gewirtz lasted 16 days -- let alone 16 years! -- inside the madhouse of WWE is something of a miracle, given the hair-trigger temper of his former boss and the complicated backstage politics.
It should come as no surprise that a writer responsible for some of the best segments in WWE history has produced an equally entertaining book. While it's definitely a "warts and all" memoir, Gewirtz isn't here to settle old scores. (Except in the case of ex-creative director Vince Russo, who gets lightly -- and deservedly -- roasted.) He praises most of the talent, and strikes up a working relationship with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson that continues to this day.
For the IWC (Internet Wrestling Community, or hardcore fans who follow "the dirtsheets") there are plenty of tales told here out of school for the first time. For casual or non-wrestling fan readers, Gewirtz defines wrestling terminology as he uses it -- there's plenty of context, too, so even casual or lapsed wrestling fans will have no trouble keeping up with the story.
August 5, 2023
There’s Just One Problem… is a memoir written by former WWE writer Brian Gewirtz.
Brian grew up wanting to follow in his uncle’s steps of becoming a television script writer. After a couple of failed shows, Brian falls into becoming the lead writer of WWE at the height of the Monday Night Wars. Brian shares many of his job details, the history of major WWE storylines, and behind the scenes stories.
If you a fan of wrestling from 2000-2015, this is the book for you. Brian shares a ton of behind the scenes stories about The McMahon family, Michael Hayes, The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, John Cena, Edge and Christian, Kurt Angle, Rowdy Roddy Piper, Goldberg and many, many more. I think the best memoirs come from those that are self-deprecating because they aren’t as in to themselves and you don’t feel like they are over-exaggerating to inflate their own ego. Brian comes off as a like-able, everyday nerd that landed a wrestling fan’s dream job. The book is hysterical and nostalgic and a must read for WWE fans.
Brian grew up wanting to follow in his uncle’s steps of becoming a television script writer. After a couple of failed shows, Brian falls into becoming the lead writer of WWE at the height of the Monday Night Wars. Brian shares many of his job details, the history of major WWE storylines, and behind the scenes stories.
If you a fan of wrestling from 2000-2015, this is the book for you. Brian shares a ton of behind the scenes stories about The McMahon family, Michael Hayes, The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, John Cena, Edge and Christian, Kurt Angle, Rowdy Roddy Piper, Goldberg and many, many more. I think the best memoirs come from those that are self-deprecating because they aren’t as in to themselves and you don’t feel like they are over-exaggerating to inflate their own ego. Brian comes off as a like-able, everyday nerd that landed a wrestling fan’s dream job. The book is hysterical and nostalgic and a must read for WWE fans.
September 26, 2022
In There's Just One Problem, former WWE head writer Brian Gewirtz tells of a contentious meeting with Vince McMahon that ultimately soured their then decade-plus working relationship. With RAW taking place in Miami that night, Brian pitched a line surrounding Dwayne Wade, then superstar player for the NBA's Miami Heat, for The Miz to use to rile up the local crowd. Unaware of who Dwyane Wade is, Vince dismissed the line essentially saying that because Vince himself isn't aware of who Dwayne Wade is, then no one else would be.
Gewirtz points out that seeing as RAW's ratings very much move up and down like a cork in the ocean during the NBA playoffs, that the audience more than likely is aware of one of basketball's best players. The end result was a screaming match in which both parties felt disrespected. This specific situation would lead Brian to reconsider his role as a WWE-lifer, and maybe see what else is out there. But how exactly did it get to that point? Why was a guy with a tenure of eleven years to that point still struggling to have his opinion heard?
While Gerwitz had always been a life-long wrestling fan, he was one of the first staff writers to come to WWE from Hollywood. Gewirtz had spent some time as a staff writer on the short-lived 90s sitcom Jenny, a vehicle for the then uber-popular Jenny McCarthy, and the MTV show Big Wolf on Campus.
While his Hollywood credentials may have endeared him to management, they bought little respect with the boys in the locker room. Having to essentially navigate two political systems (management and workers) was a full-time job in and of itself. You couldn't get too close to any one performer lest you wanted to appear as if you had favorites. One such occasion is told in detail involving Gewirtz taking a trip to "wrestler's court" (a mock trial in which one wrestler is accused of something by another backstage: usually a rookie running afoul of a veteran) when Gewirtz was accused of favoring Edge and Christian after Gewirtz was seen accepting a gift in what others assumed was in exchange for more television time.
Brian was working behind the scenes in WWE and ended up getting close to one performer in particular in The Rock. There are more than a few stories detailing Gewirtz contributing to some of Rock's most memorable moments in the early 2000s. His friendship and working relationship with Dwayne Johnson would both make him an invaluable member of the writing team but also would help open doors for him in Hollywood years down the road. With Gewirtz now a part of the time making Johnson's NBC show, Young Rock, Brian has been able to seek more creatively fulfilling rolls outside of the WWE grind.
The truly fascinating moments in this book involve Vince McMahon. With all the recent news surrounding the former CEO of WWE, Gewirtz' peak behind the curtain shows just how endlessly challenging it was working for a man who always insists he is right. While there are a few stories collected in here that have certainly made the rounds over the years (having to completely rewrite shows from the ground up at the drop of a hat), there are others that will make your head spin. If you're a life-long watcher of WWE, you're likely well aware of Vince McMahon's penchant for toilet-humor (vomiting, farting, etc). In one of his first meetings with Brian, Vince told him that WWE "doesn't do comedy, we do humor" and that "there's nothing funnier than someone stepping in dogshit. If I could, I'd write a whole show on peopling stepping in dogshit, I would." Speaks volumes for what we've seen on TV for decades.
Vince always encouraged Brian to fight for his ideas but if he ever had a disagreement with Vince himself, Brian would never win, which is what ultimately damaged their working relationship. Brian knew he couldn't win in an argument based around what should or shouldn't be on television, but even after years and years of loyal service, Vince still would only listen to himself and if he didn't get what Brian presented, it didn't go on the show. I can only imagine how frustrating this can be for someone who knows the product inside and out and has proven time and time again to be of considerable value.
To the best of my knowledge, this may be the first book written by a former head writer within WWE. As expected, the job is not an easy one and operating under a man with a work ethic the likes of Vince McMahon is a job that can only be done by select few individuals. With Brian having worked strictly as a writer and with no in-ring experience, THERE'S JUST ONE PROBLEM intends to give the reader a fascinating look at how just one aspect of the WWE machine operates, but ends up showing much more.
Gewirtz points out that seeing as RAW's ratings very much move up and down like a cork in the ocean during the NBA playoffs, that the audience more than likely is aware of one of basketball's best players. The end result was a screaming match in which both parties felt disrespected. This specific situation would lead Brian to reconsider his role as a WWE-lifer, and maybe see what else is out there. But how exactly did it get to that point? Why was a guy with a tenure of eleven years to that point still struggling to have his opinion heard?
While Gerwitz had always been a life-long wrestling fan, he was one of the first staff writers to come to WWE from Hollywood. Gewirtz had spent some time as a staff writer on the short-lived 90s sitcom Jenny, a vehicle for the then uber-popular Jenny McCarthy, and the MTV show Big Wolf on Campus.
While his Hollywood credentials may have endeared him to management, they bought little respect with the boys in the locker room. Having to essentially navigate two political systems (management and workers) was a full-time job in and of itself. You couldn't get too close to any one performer lest you wanted to appear as if you had favorites. One such occasion is told in detail involving Gewirtz taking a trip to "wrestler's court" (a mock trial in which one wrestler is accused of something by another backstage: usually a rookie running afoul of a veteran) when Gewirtz was accused of favoring Edge and Christian after Gewirtz was seen accepting a gift in what others assumed was in exchange for more television time.
Brian was working behind the scenes in WWE and ended up getting close to one performer in particular in The Rock. There are more than a few stories detailing Gewirtz contributing to some of Rock's most memorable moments in the early 2000s. His friendship and working relationship with Dwayne Johnson would both make him an invaluable member of the writing team but also would help open doors for him in Hollywood years down the road. With Gewirtz now a part of the time making Johnson's NBC show, Young Rock, Brian has been able to seek more creatively fulfilling rolls outside of the WWE grind.
The truly fascinating moments in this book involve Vince McMahon. With all the recent news surrounding the former CEO of WWE, Gewirtz' peak behind the curtain shows just how endlessly challenging it was working for a man who always insists he is right. While there are a few stories collected in here that have certainly made the rounds over the years (having to completely rewrite shows from the ground up at the drop of a hat), there are others that will make your head spin. If you're a life-long watcher of WWE, you're likely well aware of Vince McMahon's penchant for toilet-humor (vomiting, farting, etc). In one of his first meetings with Brian, Vince told him that WWE "doesn't do comedy, we do humor" and that "there's nothing funnier than someone stepping in dogshit. If I could, I'd write a whole show on peopling stepping in dogshit, I would." Speaks volumes for what we've seen on TV for decades.
Vince always encouraged Brian to fight for his ideas but if he ever had a disagreement with Vince himself, Brian would never win, which is what ultimately damaged their working relationship. Brian knew he couldn't win in an argument based around what should or shouldn't be on television, but even after years and years of loyal service, Vince still would only listen to himself and if he didn't get what Brian presented, it didn't go on the show. I can only imagine how frustrating this can be for someone who knows the product inside and out and has proven time and time again to be of considerable value.
To the best of my knowledge, this may be the first book written by a former head writer within WWE. As expected, the job is not an easy one and operating under a man with a work ethic the likes of Vince McMahon is a job that can only be done by select few individuals. With Brian having worked strictly as a writer and with no in-ring experience, THERE'S JUST ONE PROBLEM intends to give the reader a fascinating look at how just one aspect of the WWE machine operates, but ends up showing much more.
August 18, 2023
If you’ve ever been a fan of wrestling at some point in your life then you will love this book!
Perfect blend of behind the scenes tales, witty jokes and crazy Vince McMahon quotes
Perfect blend of behind the scenes tales, witty jokes and crazy Vince McMahon quotes
March 3, 2023
As a life long pro-wrestling fan, I was excited to dive into “There’s Just One Problem…” by Brian Gewirtz. Considering he was the head writer for WWE for over a decade and one of Vince McMahon’s inner circle, I had some pretty high expectations. Now that I’ve finished the surprisingly brisk memoir, I have to say I found it pretty mid. It’s not bad, mind you. I just expected more, and frankly that wasn’t the only disappointment I had during my experience.
First, the good. I truly enjoyed the perspective of someone in the wrestling industry that isn't a wrestler. His point of view is interesting and unique, mainly because most wrestling related autobiographies I read have been written by wrestlers.
Rarely does a person who works solely in the backstage creative process write a book. A lot of the stories he shares are fascinating, sometimes shocking, and occasionally funny. The last few chapters about his relationship with McMahon deteriorating were the highlight of the book, and honestly were captivating to read. The guy had a story to tell, and for the most part he did it well.
What I didn’t like about the book is honestly a taste thing that’s specific to me so this might not impact other readers, but I’m not a big fan of Gewirtz’s writing style. I really don’t like it when I’m reading a book and the author throws in intentional jokes like he’s working on a tight 5 for the Improv. There’s a lot of that in here, and frankly Gewirtz comes off rather dorky (which he admittedly is, he talks about it constantly) and not as funny as he thinks he’s being. I don’t particularly enjoy the feeling of “man if I had to spend time with this guy I’d hate him too” when I’m reading from someone’s POV, but that’s just me.
The other issue I had which is entirely a me thing and not Gewirtz’s fault is I already knew a lot of the revelations he shared due to being perpetually on the internet for the majority of my life and learning about these things in real time. There are a few instances in the book where I learned new information by reading about it from his side, but I’d say 70% of the information I gained was nothing new to me, so I spent a good portion of the book bored and ready for the next chapter.
At the end of the day I’m glad I read “There’s Just One Problem…” but I can’t say it’ll be a book I revisit ever again. If you’re a hardcore wrestling fan I’m sure you’ll read it anyway, but I think the person that will get the most out of it will be a casual fan who’s interested in the backstage mechanics of how the WWE machine works. Not only will you learn a lot, but you won’t be tainted by years of dirt sheet reporting and Reddit threads that will leave you feeling like you’re in the rinse, repeat cycle.
First, the good. I truly enjoyed the perspective of someone in the wrestling industry that isn't a wrestler. His point of view is interesting and unique, mainly because most wrestling related autobiographies I read have been written by wrestlers.
Rarely does a person who works solely in the backstage creative process write a book. A lot of the stories he shares are fascinating, sometimes shocking, and occasionally funny. The last few chapters about his relationship with McMahon deteriorating were the highlight of the book, and honestly were captivating to read. The guy had a story to tell, and for the most part he did it well.
What I didn’t like about the book is honestly a taste thing that’s specific to me so this might not impact other readers, but I’m not a big fan of Gewirtz’s writing style. I really don’t like it when I’m reading a book and the author throws in intentional jokes like he’s working on a tight 5 for the Improv. There’s a lot of that in here, and frankly Gewirtz comes off rather dorky (which he admittedly is, he talks about it constantly) and not as funny as he thinks he’s being. I don’t particularly enjoy the feeling of “man if I had to spend time with this guy I’d hate him too” when I’m reading from someone’s POV, but that’s just me.
The other issue I had which is entirely a me thing and not Gewirtz’s fault is I already knew a lot of the revelations he shared due to being perpetually on the internet for the majority of my life and learning about these things in real time. There are a few instances in the book where I learned new information by reading about it from his side, but I’d say 70% of the information I gained was nothing new to me, so I spent a good portion of the book bored and ready for the next chapter.
At the end of the day I’m glad I read “There’s Just One Problem…” but I can’t say it’ll be a book I revisit ever again. If you’re a hardcore wrestling fan I’m sure you’ll read it anyway, but I think the person that will get the most out of it will be a casual fan who’s interested in the backstage mechanics of how the WWE machine works. Not only will you learn a lot, but you won’t be tainted by years of dirt sheet reporting and Reddit threads that will leave you feeling like you’re in the rinse, repeat cycle.
November 8, 2022
I picked this book up based on the recommendation of noted bibliophile, the Iron Sheik. Which, in hindsight, probably is not where I should go for my book picks.
The book is a memoir of Brian Gewirtz's much longer than expected tenure as a writer with WWE. Big time wrestling has always fascinated me as the single most bizarre multi-billion dollar business there is. The fact that it has a legit writing staff to turn out gems like:
"Trish, it's a dog eat dog world out there...you with your puppies...and me with my wiener."
That's an actual line from an actual WWE show as relayed in the book. It's not exactly Succession. And that's probably my biggest problem with this book. The stories are just kind of lame and the author goes to great lengths to make this pretty inane job seem much more grandiose. There are some legitimately funny moments but not enough to carry a whole book. This is probably something that should have been left as a long form article in Maxim or something.
The book is a memoir of Brian Gewirtz's much longer than expected tenure as a writer with WWE. Big time wrestling has always fascinated me as the single most bizarre multi-billion dollar business there is. The fact that it has a legit writing staff to turn out gems like:
"Trish, it's a dog eat dog world out there...you with your puppies...and me with my wiener."
That's an actual line from an actual WWE show as relayed in the book. It's not exactly Succession. And that's probably my biggest problem with this book. The stories are just kind of lame and the author goes to great lengths to make this pretty inane job seem much more grandiose. There are some legitimately funny moments but not enough to carry a whole book. This is probably something that should have been left as a long form article in Maxim or something.
June 26, 2022
There was just one problem in this book was I found it boring. I was expecting juicy details on former WWE wrestlers and maybe funny stories. Instead it was just his time being the writer of these shows. Again, that part was boring. It didn’t help that I stopped watching the show when I was a kid. Many of the names I knew from Total Divas. The chapter of Roddy Piper was sweet though. And it looked at how these guys were human and had feelings. I liked how he formed relationships with these guys that was long lasting. Overall, if you adore and absolutely love wrestling this is the book for you.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my copy in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 19, 2022
This was a fun read. Brian Gewirtz spent more time as a WWE employee than many other people have. He has a very unique perspective about the creative process there. As a lifelong fan of the product, I really did enjoy the stories in the book. Some of the Michael Hayes stories will never leave my memory. I won't reveal too much about them since I don't want to give spoilers.
If you're a fan of WWE, you should definitely check this book out.
If you're a fan of WWE, you should definitely check this book out.
September 4, 2023
I really enjoyed this inciteful look behind the curtain at the world of professional wrestling. Fascinating stuff!! And Gewirtz's style of writing was just perfect for this book.
March 15, 2024
This is probably the funniest book I’ve ever read. It also gave me amazing insight into how the WWE world, which was super insightful and fun.
September 29, 2022
I loved this book about the behind-the-scenes action of WWE circa the late 90s and early 2000s. Brian Gewirtz happened to be one of the main writers for WWE during time period, which also lines up with my peak professional wrestling fandom, followed by the time that I stepped away from watching wrestling for 13 years. I learned more about that time period in wrestling that I loved, the McMahon family, and the inner workings of WWE.
July 8, 2023
Mildly interesting, especially the "inside baseball" bits about The Rock vs John Cena over Wrestlemania 26-28. What drags this book down is the unavoidable presence of Vince McMahon, who seems singularly unpleasant and lingers over most of the book like a stinkbomb some 11-year old dropped on the room.
EDIT: Had I known more clearly what a monster Vince McMahon was a few months ago, I would have never read this in the first place: Brian Gewirtz is a mark and a piece of shit for having such a long association with the WWE, maybe read Abraham Reisman's Ringmaster: Vince McMahon and the unmaking of America instead?
EDIT: Had I known more clearly what a monster Vince McMahon was a few months ago, I would have never read this in the first place: Brian Gewirtz is a mark and a piece of shit for having such a long association with the WWE, maybe read Abraham Reisman's Ringmaster: Vince McMahon and the unmaking of America instead?
August 26, 2022
I’m a sucker for a wrestling related book, so of course I had to read this! Brian was a writer for the WWE for 16 years, and this book is made up of his backstage stories.
Pretty good read, worth it for any wrestling fan!
Pretty good read, worth it for any wrestling fan!
January 12, 2023
3.5/5; it’s fun but nothing’s revelatory.
September 4, 2022
Growing up, I had little interest in professional wrestling. It wasn’t until the early 2000’s when my kids became addicted to WWE that I embraced the events and even had my favorite wrestlers (Batista was my guy!). So it’s accurate to say the tenure of Brian Gewirtz, author of THERE’S JUST ONE PROBLEM…, had a hand in my indoctrination to actually enjoying the world of professional wrestling.
To be fair, the early events I attended with my 8 and 12 year old kids were mostly spent with my daughter fearing the introduction of the Undertaker and my son hoping CM Punk got his shot at a championship. I was more actively concerned with crowd watching. That was where all the entertainment was for me. But something funny happened over the course of several years and attendance of live Smackdown, Raw, and pay per view events. I realized none of it was really about the wrestling. It was about heroes and villains (err…babyfaces and heels) squaring off in mortal combat with multi week (sometimes years) storylines, carefully constructed to maximize audience involvement. It was a comic book come to life, and I loved comic books growing up.
I mean, Randy Orton WAS Sabretooth. John Cena WAS Wolverine. Their battles were epic. But behind much of this narrative were writers like Gewirtz, scripting the story to maximize impact, and, above all, generate fan interest which translates into profits. And boy, did WWE succeed in that endeavor.
I realized these storylines, for me, were far more compelling than the actual wrestling. When done right, I couldn’t wait for the next tv episode. My kids just wanted to see their heroes and villains; I went along for the drama (well…ok. I also fan watched quote a bit still).
All this said, I always wanted to know a little more about the WWE creative process and get a peek behind that massive entrance. Gewirtz does exactly that here, with a fondness and self deprecating voice which can only come from a little distance and perspective. Now seven years removed from his WWE employment, Gewirtz looks back on his tenure as the one time 7th most powerful person in the WWE with a calmness and self introspection he would not have had back when he was employed by The Company.
To be clear, this is not a guy with a gripe writing a tell all memoir. If you’re here for that, you’ll leave disappointed. Gewirtz has both respect and fondness for his time at WWE with no axes to grind. He’s fair in his assessments of past incidents and controversies, recalling events with candor and humor making for a quick read as the chapters fly by.
Gewirtz weaves in WWE terminology, explaining the wrestling vernacular early on with lasting impact. So when he uses these terms in context throughout the book as it moves forward, you feel like a bit of an insider privy to the wrestling lingo and experiencing these situations like you’re in on the storylines. And he does all this coming off as your best friend sitting around the picnic table at the company appreciation day barbecue. I mean, the guy IS a writer.
I won’t spoil any of the stories, but Gewirtz has anecdotes on most all the major WWE talents from the early 2000’s and behind the scenes commentary for several major storylines. The fact that so many wrestlers agreed to blurb this book just goes to show you that Gewirtz was highly regarded by the Talent he worked both with and for in The Company or, at least, time has allowed them to judge him positively. All throughout the book Gewirtz not only dishes on events and criticism of said events but carefully analyzes the success or failure of each event providing fascinating analysis as well as capturing reactions from the wrestling talent and management. He never comes off as full of himself; actually just the opposite. It all makes for an insightful, behind the scenes glimpse of an entertainment juggernaut.
This was a totally enjoyable read. I’d recommend it to anyone who grew up with a WWE themed bedroom (like my son) or kept John Cena’s autographed picture on their wall (like my daughter). But also anyone intrigued by the inner workings and day to day highs and lows of working for a cultural behemoth like World Wrestling Entertainment.
4 out of 5 “I can smell what you’re cooking, Gewirtz” stars.
To be fair, the early events I attended with my 8 and 12 year old kids were mostly spent with my daughter fearing the introduction of the Undertaker and my son hoping CM Punk got his shot at a championship. I was more actively concerned with crowd watching. That was where all the entertainment was for me. But something funny happened over the course of several years and attendance of live Smackdown, Raw, and pay per view events. I realized none of it was really about the wrestling. It was about heroes and villains (err…babyfaces and heels) squaring off in mortal combat with multi week (sometimes years) storylines, carefully constructed to maximize audience involvement. It was a comic book come to life, and I loved comic books growing up.
I mean, Randy Orton WAS Sabretooth. John Cena WAS Wolverine. Their battles were epic. But behind much of this narrative were writers like Gewirtz, scripting the story to maximize impact, and, above all, generate fan interest which translates into profits. And boy, did WWE succeed in that endeavor.
I realized these storylines, for me, were far more compelling than the actual wrestling. When done right, I couldn’t wait for the next tv episode. My kids just wanted to see their heroes and villains; I went along for the drama (well…ok. I also fan watched quote a bit still).
All this said, I always wanted to know a little more about the WWE creative process and get a peek behind that massive entrance. Gewirtz does exactly that here, with a fondness and self deprecating voice which can only come from a little distance and perspective. Now seven years removed from his WWE employment, Gewirtz looks back on his tenure as the one time 7th most powerful person in the WWE with a calmness and self introspection he would not have had back when he was employed by The Company.
To be clear, this is not a guy with a gripe writing a tell all memoir. If you’re here for that, you’ll leave disappointed. Gewirtz has both respect and fondness for his time at WWE with no axes to grind. He’s fair in his assessments of past incidents and controversies, recalling events with candor and humor making for a quick read as the chapters fly by.
Gewirtz weaves in WWE terminology, explaining the wrestling vernacular early on with lasting impact. So when he uses these terms in context throughout the book as it moves forward, you feel like a bit of an insider privy to the wrestling lingo and experiencing these situations like you’re in on the storylines. And he does all this coming off as your best friend sitting around the picnic table at the company appreciation day barbecue. I mean, the guy IS a writer.
I won’t spoil any of the stories, but Gewirtz has anecdotes on most all the major WWE talents from the early 2000’s and behind the scenes commentary for several major storylines. The fact that so many wrestlers agreed to blurb this book just goes to show you that Gewirtz was highly regarded by the Talent he worked both with and for in The Company or, at least, time has allowed them to judge him positively. All throughout the book Gewirtz not only dishes on events and criticism of said events but carefully analyzes the success or failure of each event providing fascinating analysis as well as capturing reactions from the wrestling talent and management. He never comes off as full of himself; actually just the opposite. It all makes for an insightful, behind the scenes glimpse of an entertainment juggernaut.
This was a totally enjoyable read. I’d recommend it to anyone who grew up with a WWE themed bedroom (like my son) or kept John Cena’s autographed picture on their wall (like my daughter). But also anyone intrigued by the inner workings and day to day highs and lows of working for a cultural behemoth like World Wrestling Entertainment.
4 out of 5 “I can smell what you’re cooking, Gewirtz” stars.
August 11, 2023
Brian Gewirtz has presided over one of the most transformative periods in pro wrestling history and been one of the right-hand men of its kingpin Vince McMahon. Surely, you'd think, there'd be enough interesting stories to fill an anthology.
There probably is, but Gewirtz - much like his boss Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson - is too tactful to tell all. Instead, There's Just One Problem... is a carefully told set of stories that magnifies the harmless (Gewirtz embarrassing himself, Gewirtz gushing over his idols) and swerves away from anything involving meaningful conflict (CM Punk gets a passing mention, once or twice), pulling punches with the grace of Shane McMahon at the corner turntuckle.
The book is at its strongest when Gewirtz is talking about the dreams that became a reality. No matter how off-putting a lot of his humour is (and, really, it is), it's very cool that a boy who grew up idolising "Rowdy" Roddy Piper wound up befriending the man himself as an adult. But these portions come few and far between, lost amid the thick and fast rush of not-very-funny jokes.
There probably is, but Gewirtz - much like his boss Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson - is too tactful to tell all. Instead, There's Just One Problem... is a carefully told set of stories that magnifies the harmless (Gewirtz embarrassing himself, Gewirtz gushing over his idols) and swerves away from anything involving meaningful conflict (CM Punk gets a passing mention, once or twice), pulling punches with the grace of Shane McMahon at the corner turntuckle.
The book is at its strongest when Gewirtz is talking about the dreams that became a reality. No matter how off-putting a lot of his humour is (and, really, it is), it's very cool that a boy who grew up idolising "Rowdy" Roddy Piper wound up befriending the man himself as an adult. But these portions come few and far between, lost amid the thick and fast rush of not-very-funny jokes.
September 21, 2022
A fantastic occupational memoir.
Gewirtz is vulnerable, funny and an excellent self-interrogator.
As a reality TV producer, I related to just about every story he writes about at WWE, but as a superfan of pro wrestling, I was riveted by how he overcame the unique challenges of this totally cool job.
The way he portrays VKM is astonishingly complex and fascinating, multi-layered.
Loved the last two sentences of the chapter before the epilogue.
Gewirtz is vulnerable, funny and an excellent self-interrogator.
As a reality TV producer, I related to just about every story he writes about at WWE, but as a superfan of pro wrestling, I was riveted by how he overcame the unique challenges of this totally cool job.
The way he portrays VKM is astonishingly complex and fascinating, multi-layered.
Loved the last two sentences of the chapter before the epilogue.
August 15, 2024
As wrestling books go this can be placed in the holy grail alongside Brets, Jerichos first 2, I’m sorry I love you and Nitro. Absolutely fantastic book this it really is that good.
I knew who Brian Gewirtz is but never knew just how much he did or how many incredible things he came up with during his time at WWF/E. I can’t recommend this enough easy 5 stars.
I knew who Brian Gewirtz is but never knew just how much he did or how many incredible things he came up with during his time at WWF/E. I can’t recommend this enough easy 5 stars.
October 19, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed this. But, if you've never been a wrestling fan, don't bother. I thought it might be a little too "new" for me as well, since I haven't really followed wrestling since the late 80s. But I'd hear snippets of stuff into the early 2000s. The author worked at WWE for 15 years until 2015, so I was just barely hanging on to familiarity. Stories were super fun, well written, and brisk. Kept me "turning the pages."
January 8, 2024
A must read if you were a WWE fan from the late 90s to early 00’s. Filled with countless backstage stories.
May 15, 2025
A quick, light read that's pretty funny. Some good behind the scenes details too, though nothing too spectacular.
January 20, 2023
A book about a career I’ve always dreamed off.
Well written and funny it was 3 star until the final chapters.
Now I’ve an idea of what my dream job would’ve been like.
Well written and funny it was 3 star until the final chapters.
Now I’ve an idea of what my dream job would’ve been like.
April 8, 2023
Given the depth of stories and colorful characters (and the fact that he’s a writer), you’d think this would have been good. It wasn’t.
August 5, 2023
I’m a sucker for books about professional wrestling and this is one of the best I’ve ever read. It really takes you behind the curtain, showing what being a WWE writer entails, but in a humorous and straightforward manner. I flew through this book in a day - that’s how much I enjoyed the storytelling. Highly recommended.
April 8, 2024
I really enjoyed this one. Definitely recommend it.
September 27, 2022
Very entertaining read. Lots of funny stories and cool facts about the behind the curtain goings-on of the rasslin’ biz. Must read for a true fan.
September 29, 2022
I expected to be more into or entertained by this book. I wasn't. While it was well written and even had some moments that had me chuckling outloud, I just couldn't get into it and it ended up being a little of a slog
August 22, 2022
Clear voice. Fun book if you are interested in entertainment writing or the wrestling industry. Good perspective. The author is self-deprecating, thankful, and clever.
I went through this on audible. Decent reader overall but he mangled enough common wrestling names that it distracted from the book.
I went through this on audible. Decent reader overall but he mangled enough common wrestling names that it distracted from the book.
September 24, 2022
Cool slash light read about what it’s like to be a writer in the fairly recent era of WWE. Good Vince stories, mostly funny self deprecating humor and for me some super interesting insights into the business from a behind the scenes perspective. Of the handful of pro wrestling books i’ve read this one has that uniqueness of not being by a wrestler who snorts, fucks and gets hurt. I’d put it on the shelf next to the Gary Hart book if that one ever went back to print.
February 6, 2024
I decided to read this book after I heard the author on "The Edge and Christian Podcast of Awesomeness".
Like that episode, there are a lot of amusing stories and fascinating behind-the-scenes content. The writing style is very engaging.
What hampered my enjoyment was that is was largely a big ol' tongue bath for Vince McMahon. It's no secret that Vince McMahon is literal garbage in a vaguely human shake. The author even gives examples of Vince being literal garbage to employees, but manages to makes excuses of it. It's full-scale victim blaming. It's frankly gross and off-putting.
(I'm also not a fan of the Rock, but that's largely a "me thing", and there are lots of pages spent tongue-bathing him as well.)
Like that episode, there are a lot of amusing stories and fascinating behind-the-scenes content. The writing style is very engaging.
What hampered my enjoyment was that is was largely a big ol' tongue bath for Vince McMahon. It's no secret that Vince McMahon is literal garbage in a vaguely human shake. The author even gives examples of Vince being literal garbage to employees, but manages to makes excuses of it. It's full-scale victim blaming. It's frankly gross and off-putting.
(I'm also not a fan of the Rock, but that's largely a "me thing", and there are lots of pages spent tongue-bathing him as well.)
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