One big thing: Former WWE Champion Jinder Mahal supports Swerve Strickland’s lucrative AEW contract
Raj Dhesi, formerly known as Jinder Mahal in WWE, voiced his support for Swerve Strickland’s new AEW contract on social media platform X.
• “Normalize paying wrestlers what they deserve,” Dhesi wrote.
• In response to a fan, he added, “The market just dictated [Strickland] getting the bag.”
Why it matters
Strickland’s new deal, reportedly making him one of the highest-paid performers in the industry, has sparked discussions about wrestler compensation and market value in professional wrestling.
By the numbers
• Strickland’s contract runs through September 2029.
• His pay is reportedly on par with top stars like Kazuchika Okada, Mercedes Mone, Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, and Randy Orton.
The backdrop
• Strickland signed his new contract live on AEW All In’s Zero Hour pre-show.
• WWE reportedly attempted to sign Strickland and his associate Prince Nana.
• Dave Meltzer reported that WWE sources feel contracts like Strickland’s are inflating wrestler pay structures.
What they’re saying
Other wrestlers have also weighed in on the matter:
• Tony Deppen, EJ Nduka, and Veda Scott have commented on the situation.
• Dhesi’s statements align with a growing sentiment among wrestlers about fair compensation.
The big picture
Strickland’s contract and the ensuing discussion highlight the evolving landscape of professional wrestling, where competition between promotions is driving up performer salaries.
What’s next?
As for Dhesi:
• He’s been a free agent since April 2023.
• Recently returned to the independent wrestling scene.
• Won a championship in AAA alongside AEW star Satnam Singh.
What’s your take on the current state of wrestler compensation in the industry? Leave a comment below with your thoughts!
