The WWE royalty payment system has long been a topic of debate within the wrestling community. While WWE often touts its support for former talent, the reality behind the scenes has been shrouded in mystery. Recently, former WWE Superstar Marc Mero shed light on the inner workings of the system, and the numbers are eye-opening.
A Glimpse into WWE’s Royalty Payment Structure
Marc Mero, a WWE veteran best known for his time as Marc Mero and the Blue Blazer, took to social media to share a royalty statement dated December 19, 2019. The document provided a concrete example of how WWE royalty payments work for former talent. According to Mero’s post, the statement revealed a meager $1,143.41 in royalties for the year 2019.
This revelation raises several questions about the fairness of the system. With WWE generating billions of dollars in revenue annually, it’s hard to understand why former talent is not receiving a more substantial share. Mero’s post sparked a heated discussion within the wrestling community, with many former wrestlers and industry observers expressing their outrage and disappointment.
The Numbers Behind WWE Royalty Payments
While Mero’s post provided a specific example of the royalty payment system, it’s essential to understand the broader context. According to sources close to the matter, WWE royalty payments are based on a complex formula that takes into account various factors, including:
- Merchandise sales: A percentage of merchandise sales is allocated to former talent, but the exact percentage is unknown.
- Home video sales: WWE pays a royalty on home video sales, but the rate is reportedly minimal.
- Streaming: WWE’s streaming services, such as WWE Network, reportedly pay a small royalty to former talent.
The amounts may seem insignificant, but they add up over time. According to industry insiders, some former WWE wrestlers have received as much as $10,000 to $20,000 in royalties per year. However, these figures are exceptions rather than the rule.
WWE’s Response to Criticism
When asked for comment on Mero’s post, WWE issued a statement saying, “We appreciate the hard work and dedication of our former talent, and we’re committed to providing them with fair compensation for their efforts.” However, the statement failed to address the specifics of the royalty payment system.
According to a WWE insider, the company’s royalty payment structure is designed to reward “top-performing” former talent. However, the definition of “top-performing” is unclear, and many former wrestlers feel that the system is unfair and arbitrary.
A Voice for Former Talent
Marc Mero’s post has sparked a much-needed conversation about the treatment of former WWE talent. As one of the most vocal critics of WWE’s royalty payment system, Mero’s actions have inspired others to speak out.
According to a source close to Mero, the former wrestler is “fed up” with WWE’s treatment of former talent. “Marc’s post was a wake-up call for many of us,” the source said. “We need to stand together and demand fair compensation for our work.”
The Future of WWE Royalty Payments
Mero’s post has raised awareness about the issues surrounding WWE’s royalty payment system. However, it’s unclear whether the company will make significant changes to address the concerns of former talent.
As one industry observer noted, “WWE’s royalty payment structure is a symptom of a larger problem – the company’s treatment of its former talent. Until WWE addresses these issues, we can expect more former wrestlers to speak out and demand fair compensation.”
In the end, Marc Mero’s post has shed light on a critical issue within the wrestling community. As the conversation continues, it’s essential to remember the voices of former WWE talent and the need for fairness and transparency in the royalty payment system.
WWE’s Royalty Payment System: A Call to Action
The WWE royalty payment system is a complex and often opaque process. While WWE claims to support its former talent, the numbers tell a different story. As the wrestling community continues to grow and evolve, it’s essential to address the concerns of former talent and provide fair compensation for their work.
Marc Mero’s post has sparked a much-needed conversation about the treatment of former WWE talent. As the discussion continues, it’s essential to remember the voices of those who have dedicated their careers to the sport.