Fans are still stunned after recent WWE moves. Big names were cut or asked to take pay cuts. Wrestlers and fans say TKO is running WWE like a business, not a wrestling company. But one star seems untouchable: Roman Reigns.
TKO’s new approach
Reports from UFCcoverage say WWE made major changes in 2026. About 23 wrestlers were released recently. Some groups like the Wyatt Sicks and performers such as Aleister Black and Zelina Vega were let go after little TV time. Even longtime WWE people felt vulnerable.
The New Day — Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods — were asked to take pay cuts and then left the company. Fans are angry because New Day is one of the most popular tag teams in history. Many think they could do well in other places, including AEW.
Insiders say TKO leaders treat WWE mainly as a profit machine. They are cutting costs even while the company posts record profits. Executives have taken big pay raises, which frustrates talent and fans.
Who is expendable?
The recent moves show that very few wrestlers are safe. Names once seen as untouchable — like Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, Randy Orton, Seth Rollins, and Drew McIntyre — could be pushed aside if TKO chooses. Age, injuries, or less TV time were listed as reasons some are now at risk.
Some releases, like Kairi Sane, surprised fans because she was active in the ring. But WWE could justify that move by saying she was not at the very top of the women’s division. That has fans worried about how WWE values its performers.
Even major stars could be asked to accept pay cuts. The message from TKO feels clear: loyalty does not guarantee job security in this new era.
Roman Reigns: the only untouchable
Roman Reigns is a different case. He won the World Heavyweight Championship from CM Punk at WrestleMania 42 and has been presented as WWE’s top star. This run has made him the face of the company in a way few others are.
Recent reports said Reigns will not appear on WWE TV in June and will not have a match at the Night of Champions event. That raised speculation he might be leaving. But it now appears his absence is tied to show plans — he would not be headlining Night of Champions, so he was not needed for June TV.
Because of his star power and possible Hollywood prospects, TKO will not risk upsetting him. Reigns is compared to past crossover stars like The Rock and John Cena. If he asked for big changes or more pay, sources say TKO would likely agree. He could leave and hurt WWE’s TV and business far more than others.
What this means for WWE
WWE under TKO looks like a company focused on money and efficiency. That approach may help business, but it has cost trust with talent and fans. Many wrestlers now feel replaceable. Roman Reigns is the major exception — the one name TKO will not challenge.
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