10 Things We Learned From Ryback's First Podcast
Sounds like The Big Guy was promised the world.
For those of you that may not be aware, former WWE superstar Ryback recently released the debut episode of his new podcast series, titled Conversation With The Big Guy. In his first episode, the real-life Ryan Reeves chats with his best friend and current Pro Wrestling Syndicate booker, Pat Buck, to discuss all things Ryback but, most importantly, his time in WWE and the details that lead to his release.
The former Skip Sheffield had a number of interesting revelations throughout his "Introducing Ryan Reeves" episode, including some financial numbers that many current and former WWE wrestlers do not often discuss. Speaking of finances, Ryan also discusses the deal in which he was offered and how it lead to his eventual release from the company.
Aside from talking money, Ryan covers his creative drive and how he felt stifled by the time he called it quits with the world's largest wrestling promotion.
All in all, the podcast was a very interesting episode and there will be more to come, according to Reeves and Buck. But for those that have not yet listened and just want the CliffsNotes, or to just see a recap of the highlights, WhatCulture presents the top 10 things learned from the very first podcast from Ryback...
10. Ryback's Booking Fee Is $4,500
While Dave Meltzer had reported this previously, the debut episode of Ryback's "Conversation With The Big Guy" podcast all but confirmed Ryan Reeve's requested booking fee of $4,500 per appearance.
What's interesting is that, at first, Pat Buck and Ryan Reeves both seemed to harbour some resentment towards Meltzer for reporting this information and may have even implied it wasn't true. Later in the podcast, however, they basically confirmed the number and began discussing why they feel that the fee is fair.
Granted, $4,500 is a median number since some appearances may be a little less while others may be a little more, but Ryan mentioned his commitment and professionalism as making his requested quote more than fair.
If Reeves can get booked at that appearance fee, more power to him. After all, someone's value is only what someone else is willing to pay and kudos to Ryback for trying to get a premium price. So long as promoters feel that the former Ryback is worth the high asking price by being able to draw fans and sell tickets to their independent wrestling shows, expect more wrestlers to come out of WWE with higher asking prices.