Reports say TKO is asking many WWE Superstars to take large pay cuts. The company points to a lighter schedule now compared to when contracts were signed. That claim is causing anger and concern among wrestlers and fans.
Why TKO says pay cuts are needed
According to reports that cite Dave Meltzer, TKO’s argument is simple: the work has changed. Wrestlers are no longer on the road as much as they used to be. The company says many Superstars now work only one day a week or wrestle a few times a month. That is far less than the old schedule of multiple house shows and long travel.
Meltzer quoted the company as saying, “Yes, we are asking you to take less money, but their argument is you are doing significantly less now.” TKO appears to be asking some talent to accept new deals worth as much as 50 percent less than their current contracts.
Who TKO is targeting
Reports say TKO is not asking the top stars to take cuts. The biggest names — sometimes called “tippy-top main eventers” — are largely safe. Examples mentioned include CM Punk, Roman Reigns, and Seth Rollins. Those performers earn huge sums and could likely walk away if forced into big pay cuts.
At the other end, very low-paid talent also seem less likely to be targeted. The focus is on the large middle group. These are the Superstars who make more than entry-level wrestlers but are not the highest-paid stars. That group is where TKO sees the most potential savings.
Recent exits and reported offers
Some wrestlers are said to have refused the new deals and left WWE. Names reported to have walked away after being offered much less include Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods. It is believed their new offers would have paid them significantly less than their previous contracts.
Some talent might accept a smaller pay packet if the schedule is lighter and offers more time at home. But many see a problem with changing pay mid-contract. If a contract runs out and a new deal is offered at lower pay, the wrestler can choose to decline. Changing terms while a deal is active is more contentious.
Money, gates, and fairness questions
The pay-cut news has raised wider questions about WWE money and leadership. Reports note that WWE executives and top managers have posted big earnings. One report said Nick Khan earned $24 million in 2025, a big jump from the year before. WWE also promoted record gate receipts and higher ticket prices.
Fans and wrestlers ask: if the company is making more money than before, should mid-level Superstars shoulder big pay cuts? That debate is ongoing as negotiations and departures continue. For now, the situation shows a clear split: top stars are protected, lower-paid talent are mostly untouched, and the middle tier faces the biggest changes.
UFCcoverage will continue to report updates as more Superstars make contract decisions or leave the company.
