In an update to a developing top story, WrestleZone can confirm that in addition to a big Smackdown name considering a WWE departure, there have been discussions between Rey Mysterio and WWE management regarding Mysterio’s future in WWE.
According to a well-placed source in WWE who read our initial report, Mysterio has discussed with management several concerns he has regarding his character and the future of the Smackdown brand.
With stars like Shawn Michales, Matt Hardy and Chris Jericho seemingly out of the WWE picture, and with news that Triple H is not in any hurry to return to TV, we’re being told that low locker room morale is continuing to see fallout.
"There’s a real sense of disappointment in WWE right now," our source told us, "paychecks are down, from pay per view bonuses to merchandise royalties. Only the very top guys are making great money, and it’s the guys underneath who are really feeling the pinch right now."
Smackdown’s first rating on Syfy wasn’t a morale booster, either. The show registered a 1.7 cable rating, averaging 2.5 million viewers over the course of the two-hour broadcast. WWE was expecting, and openly talking about scoring at least a 2.0 for the live edition of the show. The Smackdown locker room is concerned what will happen after the initial week’s hype and publicity for the live cablecast."
Mysterio still has considerable time left on his contract, but he’s a prominent star who is addressing his concerns with the company. "With Matt Hardy obviously wanting out, and Chris Jericho leaving so publicly," our WWE insider told us, "it’s going to be hard for WWE management to maintain the happy face mentality much longer."
Nick was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, and lived there until the age of 18, when he decided to pack his flack jacket and move to New York City.
