We’ve been covering the changes WWE has been making as budget cuts. We’ve exclusively reported on the $20 million the company was trying to cut as well as changes to the road crew transportation.
We also reported Monday more cuts were expected this week. WZ can now confirm another change WWE budget cut which will affect independent wrestlers.
WWE has reduced the standard day of pay to indy workers to be extras for television from $200 to $100. When WWE travels, they always have independent wrestlers from the area available to use. They either personally select guys or there is a formal submission process independent wrestlers can go through to apply to be an extra. If accepted, they are at the arena all day and if the script for the show should call for some extras, they are used as needed. WWE has now cut the pay in half for what talent will receive.
If a wrestler is used in a match or a more physically demanding spot either during rehearsal or recording, WWE has been known to pay a higher fee which varies depending on the work. It’s believed this payment amount will also be reduced.
LaBar: Of course debate is going to take place regarding the $100 being a slap in the face or being fair. It’s more common on the indy’s to be paid $100 or less, unless you’re a top drawing name. So to spend a day getting free catering, a potential national TV cameo and some networking with WWE people…$100 isn’t bad. You also have to remember it’s a payday for a Monday or Tuesday and indy guys normally aren’t making money on those days anyways because nobody runs indy shows on those days.
