AEW’s Shelton Benjamin Opens Up About Disappointing 2016 WWE Return

One Big Thing

AEW World Tag Team Champion Shelton Benjamin reveals he had “bigger expectations” for his 2016 WWE return, pointing to significant changes in WWE’s business model that affected his compensation and role.

Why It Matters

Benjamin’s experience highlights the evolving landscape of professional wrestling contracts and talent management, showing how WWE’s shift from tour-based income to TV revenue impacts wrestler earnings.

Key Details

• Benjamin received initial contact from William Regal about his potential return
• WWE offered him a lower downside guarantee than expected
• He misunderstood how WWE’s revenue model had changed from tour-based to TV-driven
• The wrestler didn’t have an agent during negotiations

Direct Quote

“When I went back to WWE, I had bigger expectations… I always felt like if you had ever done anything worth memory in WWE, there’s always a chance you’ve gotta go back,” Benjamin said on Talk Is Jericho.

By The Numbers

• 6-7 years: Time between Benjamin’s WWE departure and return
• 1 Raw Tag Team Championship reign during his second run
• 7 years: Length of his second WWE stint (2016-2023)

The Big Picture

Benjamin’s story represents a larger trend of returning WWE stars facing different business conditions than during their initial runs. His current success in AEW, including winning the World Tag Team Championship with Bobby Lashley, suggests there’s life after WWE for veteran performers.

What’s Next

Benjamin continues his run in AEW as part of the Hurt Syndicate, recently capturing the AEW World Tag Team Championship on Dynamite.

What do you think about the changing landscape of wrestling contracts? Share your thoughts in the comments below.