The path from active WWE Superstar to a backstage producer role is a well-trodden one within the company. Many former competitors leverage their years of in-ring experience to help shape the matches and segments fans see each week. Names like Billy Kidman, Jamie Noble, Robert Roode, Shane Helms, TJ Wilson, Jason Jordan, and Molly Holly are just a few examples of former stars now contributing behind the scenes on Raw, SmackDown, NXT, and Premium Live Events.
This transition allows veterans to pass on their knowledge to the next generation. Shayna Baszler, who was released by WWE in May 2025, reportedly underwent producer training over the summer while evaluating her next steps. The former NXT Women’s Champion even made a brief on-screen appearance at NXT Homecoming to offer encouragement to Sol Ruca and Zaria, demonstrating her continued connection to the developmental brand despite her release.
Now, another experienced performer appears to be exploring this potential career shift. Candice LeRae, currently an active member of the SmackDown roster, is reportedly starting to prepare for a possible future beyond her final match. According to a source cited by TC of the insider X account WrestleVotes, LeRae has recently been learning the ropes of match production within WWE.
The report specifically mentions her involvement with WWE Main Event. “She has been a producer for matches for WWE Main Event, including the one being filmed before [SmackDown] in Tempe [Friday night] between The Street Profits & Los Garza,” the source stated. Los Garza typically refers to Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo, now often known as Los Lotharios.
LeRae brings a wealth of experience to any potential producing role. Her professional wrestling career spans over two decades, including a highly regarded run on the independent circuit before signing with WWE in 2017. While undoubtedly talented, her televised in-ring appearances have become less frequent recently, particularly since her alliance with Nia Jax dissolved following Elimination Chamber earlier this year.
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Since losing the WWE Women’s Speed Championship to Sol Ruca back in April, Candice has competed in only four televised matches, excluding appearances on Main Event. Her most recent televised bout was on the September 23rd edition of NXT, where she unsuccessfully challenged Lainey Reid in the finals of a tournament to name a number one contender for that same Speed Title.
Currently on SmackDown, LeRae is aligned with her husband, Johnny Gargano, and Tommaso Ciampa as part of the reunited #DIY, often serving in more of a managerial capacity, though she remains willing to get physically involved when necessary. She notably took a significant bump during the SummerSlam weekend, going ribs-first through a ladder in the WWE Tag Team Championship Six-Way TLC Match.
It is currently unclear whether LeRae’s exploration of the producer role signals an intention to step away from in-ring competition soon or if she is simply expanding her skillset and preparing for the long-term future.
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