Brian “Road Dogg” James has reportedly left WWE, where he served as the co-lead writer of SmackDown.
News broke of James’ departure on February 5, which was initially reported by Bodyslam+ and then corroborated by Mike Johnson of PWInsider. It was noted in Johnson’s report that James “made the decision to leave his position.”
Later that day, a follow-up report from PWInsider stated that James informed WWE in person that he was resigning from his role in creative, with the website adding that WWE sources indicated that James “openly expressed his unhappiness.” It is also noted that while James is no longer on the creative team, he remains under a Legends Contract with WWE.
Road Dogg Leaves WWE For A Second Time
James previously served as the lead writer of SmackDown from late 2016 until stepping down in 2019 shortly after WrestleMania 35. The Hall of Famer went on to work in NXT before being released in January 2022. James was brought back to the promotion a few months later when Triple H assumed the role of Head of Creative following Vince McMahon’s departure. James was named the co-lead writer of SmackDown in February 2025, a role he shared with John Swikata. The next episode of SmackDown will take place on March 6, and will focus on the fallout from Elimination Chamber on the blue brand.
