Dot Net Exclusive notes: Michael Hayes update, a number of writers and backstage workers absent from Raw

-Michael Hayes was working backstage at Raw on Monday. Although he is no longer a vice president, he retained his role as the Smackdown lead writer following his 60-day suspension for using a racial slur. There is some speculation that he may address the entire locker room when everyone gathers for the WWE Draft on Monday.

-Raw lead writer Brian Gewirtz and Gerald Brisco were among the backstage regulars who were not at Raw on Monday night. The company was originally slated to have that night off and tape television the week before, so a number of writers and agents/producers planned vacations. Bruce Prichard filled in for Brisco at the gorilla position.

Powell's POV: Hayes went through (and may still be going through) outpatient treatment at a facility in Atlanta for his alcohol issues, as it's been made clear to him that he will be fired if he drinks again. He reportedly met with Mark Henry to talk through their issues relating Hayes using the racial slur that Henry reported to management.

The writers who missed Monday's show are back on the job already because the draft is coming up. It will be a long week for the writers as they pitch their ideas for which wrestlers should switch brands, so the time off leading up to draft week came at a good time.

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