10 Compelling Pieces Of Evidence That Prove Wrestling Is Worse Than It's Ever Been

The other downside to a monopoly in the wrestling business is a lack of opportunity for the actual workers. Wrestlers used to be able to bounce from territory to territory and have promotions actually bid for their services. At the height of the Monday Night Wars, Vince McMahon was forced to give out guaranteed contracts instead of token "I don't give contracts, I give opportunity's" line. It allowed wrestlers to have some sort of financial guarantee for the first time in their lives but now, that's all gone away.

In 2014, WWE salary structures were leaked online and wrestling fans got their glimpse and what their heroes on television were actually taking home. Some salaries, like those for the Rock, Undertaker, John Cena, and Brock Lesnar were not surprising because they are established main event guys, the equivalent of being a "made man" in the mafia.

However, the salaries of some younger, midcard wrestlers were shocking to those who weren't in the know. Wrestlers are technically not employees of WWE, they are considered "independent contractors" who don't receive money for food, accommodations, or travel (unless its specifically written in their contract).

That means that wrestlers are on their own when it comes to road expenses while traveling around the country. 

Take Jack Swagger for instance: He is making about $75,000 per year as a member of the WWE roster, which initially sounds like decent money. However, once you add up hotels, meals, and various other expenses, you're talking about a figure much lower.

Developmental guys have it even worse with most of their contracts coming in around the $25,000 mark for 2-3 years.