In a move that’s already shaking the WWE Universe to its core, reports have surfaced that TKO Group Holdings, the parent company of WWE, has started internal discussions about talks again Roman Reigns’ blockbuster \$15 million contract.
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Reason:
The core reason? His increasingly limited appearances, which some within the commercial ranks reportedly feel don’t come with his big wage. His look has become increasingly usually, frequently reserved for premium live events and huge television narratives. Whereas his match presence has decreased, Reigns has been on WWE.
So why TKO, a company that only recently finalised the WWE-UFC mixing under Endeavour, with a formula that works?
TKO is both an investor’s and an operational. When you compare his match periods, he always has a lot of matches a year. This starts to raise eyebrows. Even though TKO is always in position. Reigns may be seen as one that no longer fits the changing model of skills. Top stars like Brock Lesnar, as well as possible names like Paul talking or working under part-time deals. A publicly traded company but also important to investors.
This is not only just business, it’s personal for fans. The idea that the Tribal Chief may be asked to take a pay reduce or change to his contract is already being seen as a hit in the face of a class performer. Social media are with rumours. To his loyal fanbase, Reigns has more. Many see this move as clearly not respectful.
To all fans, wrestling as well as entertainment fans are the same, already off, warning that decreasing Reigns’ presence, or worse, changing him, can have a chain reaction. Some worry that he is Hollywood full-time, or even about increasing his retirement. It can reduce WWE’s creative direction, which has been so connected with the Bloodline narrative.
What Next?
That Reigns and TKO reach a mutual agreement, maybe having his salary but connecting it to marquee event appearances or promotional duties. Another is that WWE bend more into creating new stars to explain a reduced reliance on part-timers. Already, names like Cody Rhodes, LA Knight, and even Solo Sikoa have been hanging around as long-term faces of the company.
Then there’s the riskier: if talks sour, Reigns can start changing himself out altogether. With Hollywood always knocking and his heritage stronger, he has options. WWE, meanwhile, may need to fast-track a post-Reigns era, something they’ve been committed to, given his unmatched things.
Regardless of how it shows, this situation is an important state for WWE under TKO’s leadership. Balancing star power with no easy work, especially when that star is Roman Reigns. But one thing’s for sure: disrespecting the Tribal Chief, even in a murmur.
And the WWE Universe will be watching every step.
Vijay Suyal