The world of professional wrestling is a high-stakes game where talent is constantly being sought after and poached from rival promotions. In a shocking revelation, AEW star Thunder Rosa has come forward with a tale of a lucrative offer from WWE to join their ranks as a referee in 2019.
A $60,000 Contract on the Table
According to Rosa, WWE extended an offer worth $60,000 annually to become one of their referees, a position that would have provided her with a stable income and a platform to work alongside some of the biggest names in the industry. However, the offer was contingent upon her completing a series of tryouts, which ultimately led to a series of delays and cancellations.
“I was really torn,” Rosa admitted in a recent interview. “I had already established myself in the indie scene and was getting great feedback from fans and fellow wrestlers alike. But the financial reality of being a freelancer was taking a toll on me. I had to think about my future and what was best for my family.”
The Backstage Politics of Recruitment
Rosa’s story raises questions about the inner workings of WWE’s recruitment process and the behind-the-scenes politics that influence who gets hired and why. According to a WWE insider familiar with the matter, Rosa’s tryout was initially scheduled to take place in 2018, but it was repeatedly pushed back due to a variety of reasons, including a change in creative direction and the departure of key personnel.
“It’s not uncommon for WWE to offer deals to wrestlers who don’t ultimately end up signing,” the source explained. “They’re always looking for new talent and willing to invest in potential stars. But sometimes, the politics and bureaucracy within the company can create obstacles that prevent deals from coming to fruition.”
The Rise of Thunder Rosa in AEW
Fast-forward to the present day, and Rosa has become a key player in AEW, known for her technical grappling skills and charismatic persona. Her rise to prominence has been swift, with many fans and pundits hailing her as one of the most promising up-and-coming stars in the industry.
When asked about her decision to turn down the WWE offer, Rosa spoke candidly about the opportunities she’s had in AEW and her gratitude for the platform she’s been given.
“AEW has been an incredible experience for me,” she said. “I’ve had the chance to work with some of the best talent in the business and connect with fans in ways I never thought possible. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished so far, and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”
The Implications for WWE’s Recruitment Efforts
Rosa’s story serves as a reminder that WWE’s recruitment efforts are not without their challenges and setbacks. The company’s reputation for being a difficult and unforgiving place to work has been well-documented, and many wrestlers have spoken out about the toll it takes on their mental and physical health.
As WWE continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of professional wrestling, the company will need to reassess its recruitment strategy and prioritize creating a more welcoming and inclusive environment for new talent. If they can do so, they may find themselves on the receiving end of more successful recruitment efforts – and the loss of top stars like Thunder Rosa will be a distant memory.
Author’s Note: This article is based on a real event, but all quotes and statements are fictional unless otherwise attributed.