Nia Jax "Upset" With WWE Over Pay And Creative Direction

The latest backstage news on Nia's WWE leave of absence.

Nia Jax
WWE.com

Nia Jax embarked upon an indefinite leave of absence from WWE earlier this week, but while "personal reasons" were initially cited, it now looks like the Raw Superstar is disgruntled with her place in the company.

As per SI.com's Justin Barrasso, Jax is unhappy with her creative direction and position on the pay scale. She has been booked like a monster since joining the main roster, and has always been presented strongly, but she's never been anything more than a peripheral figure in the title hunt, which may explain her frustration.

On top of this, Bryan Alvarez claimed on the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Live that Nia was initially told she'd be facing Asuka at this weekend's TLC pay-per-view, but plans changed, and Emma was booked against 'The Empress Of Tomorrow' instead. Jax was understandably upset at losing out on this opportunity.

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While talents usually have little power in situations like this, Jax reportedly has more leverage than most. She is Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson's cousin, and this should strengthen her position, with Barrasso expecting her to return to WWE before too long, "this time with a larger paycheck."

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.