JBL defends WWE talent pay structure and compensation model

WWE Hall of Famer JBL defended the company’s talent compensation structure, arguing that wrestlers can increase their earnings by driving higher ratings and consumer interest. Speaking on the ‘Something to Wrestle With’ podcast, JBL stated that while performers are currently ‘making really good money,’ those seeking larger contracts must increase their market value through business performance.

JBL’s comments follow remarks from TKO President and COO Mark Shapiro at a Goldman Sachs conference, where Shapiro noted that the company has ‘resized’ pay for WWE Superstars and fighters following significant media rights agreements with partners including Netflix, ESPN, and Paramount. JBL compared the revenue-based compensation model to professional sports like football and basketball, noting that increasing one individual’s salary often requires adjusting costs elsewhere within a finite revenue pool.

Additionally, JBL praised the current state of performer care under TKO, highlighting improvements in healthcare compared to previous eras of the industry.