In a candid interview with Renee Paquette on Close Up, the former NXT Champion Tommaso Ciampa shared the behind-the-scenes story of his departure from WWE and his subsequent decision to join All Elite Wrestling (AEW). As reported by Wrestling News, Ciampa shed light on the financial stability that led him to choose AEW over WWE.
The Financial Struggle is Real
According to Ciampa, the financial struggles faced by WWE wrestlers, especially those who started on the independent circuit, played a significant role in his decision-making process. “As a performer who’s been on the road for years, watching people struggle with making ends meet, and seeing the stress it puts on their families and personal lives, I knew I had to make a change,” Ciampa revealed.
Ciampa’s words echo the sentiments of many wrestlers who have spoken out about the financial struggles they face within the WWE. The financial stability offered by AEW was a major draw for Ciampa, who has been vocal about his desire to prioritize his family and well-being. As he put it, “I wanted to take care of my own family, and that meant taking care of myself first.”
AEW’s Attractive Offer
Sources close to Tony Khan have confirmed that AEW made a significant offer to Ciampa, one that addressed his financial concerns and provided a more favorable work-life balance. According to these sources, AEW’s financial package was more competitive than what WWE was offering, allowing Ciampa to feel secure about his future.
This attractive offer, combined with AEW’s creative freedom and willingness to listen to wrestler feedback, further solidified Ciampa’s decision to join the promotion. “AEW’s commitment to being a performer-led company resonated with me,” Ciampa shared. “I felt like I was being treated like a person, not just a worker.”
WWE’s Reaction to Ciampa’s Departure
According to a WWE insider, Ciampa’s departure was a blow to the company, which had high hopes for the former champion’s future. “Tommaso was a talented performer and a great fit for our brand,” the insider revealed. “His departure was a surprise, but we understand the reasons behind his decision.”
While WWE has not publicly commented on Ciampa’s departure, sources within the company have hinted that they are working to address the financial concerns of their wrestlers. As one insider noted, “We’re taking steps to improve the financial stability of our performers, but it’s a complex issue that requires time and effort to resolve.”
Ciampa’s Future in AEW
With his financial stability secured, Ciampa is now focused on his in-ring career in AEW. According to sources close to the promotion, Ciampa is expected to have a significant role in the upcoming months, potentially as a top contender for the AEW World Championship.
Ciampa’s partnership with Tony Khan has already begun to bear fruit, with the two reportedly working closely on storylines and character development. As Ciampa put it, “Tony has given me the creative freedom to be myself, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me.”
Conclusion
Tommaso Ciampa’s decision to leave WWE for AEW has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, but it’s clear that financial stability played a significant role in his decision. As a performer who has been vocal about the financial struggles faced by wrestlers, Ciampa’s choice is a testament to the importance of prioritizing one’s well-being.
Only time will tell what the future holds for Ciampa in AEW, but one thing is certain: he’s taking control of his career and prioritizing his family and financial stability. As he said, “I’m excited to see where this journey takes me, and I’m grateful to Tony Khan for giving me the opportunity to be myself.”