Top Earning Professional Wrestlers of 2024: Highest Paid WWE and AEW Stars Revealed
In the vibrant world of professional wrestling, 2024 has showcased remarkable earning figures for the sport’s top stars. The earnings of these athletes are a reflection of their significant contributions both in and out of the ring, with major contracts, endorsements, and merchandise sales driving their impressive paychecks. Here’s a detailed look at the highest-paid professional wrestlers of 2024, ranked from highest to lowest earnings, featuring prominent stars from both WWE and AEW.
1. Roman Reigns
Estimated Earnings: $10-12 million
Roman Reigns stands as the highest earner in professional wrestling for 2024. His substantial income is largely due to his dominant role as WWE’s Universal Champion, which includes a lucrative multi-year contract, performance bonuses, and various endorsement deals. Reigns’ role in major storylines and his significant presence in WWE’s top events further contribute to his top position on the earnings list.
2. Seth Rollins
Estimated Earnings: $8-10 million
Seth Rollins, known for his high-profile matches and consistent performance, ranks second among the highest earners. His earnings are fueled by a combination of his substantial WWE salary, extensive merchandise sales, and performance bonuses. Rollins’ popularity and ability to deliver compelling in-ring performances make him a key draw for WWE, boosting his overall income.
3. Cody Rhodes
Estimated Earnings: $7-9 million
Cody Rhodes has made a notable return to WWE, significantly impacting the company’s landscape and earning potential. His income is bolstered by his prominent storylines, a generous WWE contract, and substantial merchandise sales. Rhodes’ role in major feuds and high-profile matches contributes to his impressive earnings.
4. Randy Orton
Estimated Earnings: $7-9 million
Randy Orton continues to be one of WWE’s top earners. His earnings are driven by his long-standing position in the company, high-profile storylines, and a substantial salary. Orton’s ability to remain a major player in WWE’s main events and his extensive fan base contribute to his significant income.
5. Jon Moxley
Estimated Earnings: $6-8 million
In AEW, Jon Moxley, previously known as Dean Ambrose in WWE, is among the highest-paid wrestlers. His earnings are driven by his main event status, intense in-ring performances, and a competitive salary. Moxley’s high profile within AEW, coupled with performance bonuses and merchandise sales, makes him a major financial success in the promotion.
6. Kevin Owens
Estimated Earnings: $6-8 million
Kevin Owens also ranks high on the earnings list, benefiting from his WWE contract, significant match appearances, and merchandise sales. His strong performances and key role in major storylines contribute to his financial success.
7. Drew McIntyre
Estimated Earnings: $5-7 million
Drew McIntyre’s earnings reflect his success and popularity in WWE. His substantial income includes his WWE salary, earnings from main event appearances, and merchandise sales. McIntyre’s role in high-profile matches and his growing fan base contribute to his significant financial standing.
8. Kenny Omega
Estimated Earnings: $5-7 million
Kenny Omega’s income is significant, coming from his AEW contract and various international appearances. Omega’s global popularity and his role in major AEW storylines and events help drive his impressive earnings, supported by substantial merchandise sales.
9. Adam Copeland (formerly Edge)
Estimated Earnings: $4-6 million
Edge remains one of WWE’s top earners, thanks to his high-profile returns and significant storylines. His earnings are bolstered by his WWE salary and appearances in major events, reflecting his continued impact and popularity in the wrestling world.
10. Becky Lynch
Estimated Earnings: $4-6 million
Becky Lynch’s earnings come from her WWE salary, extensive merchandise sales, and significant appearances in major events. Lynch’s status as one of WWE’s top female stars ensures that her earnings remain high, driven by her influence and popularity.
11. Chris Jericho
Estimated Earnings: $4-5 million
As a founding figure of AEW, Chris Jericho continues to be a significant earner. His income includes earnings from his wrestling career, business ventures, and various media projects. Jericho’s role in AEW and his diverse portfolio contribute to his financial success.
12. Mercedes Moné (formerly Sasha Banks)
Estimated Earnings: $3-5 million
Mercedes Moné, who transitioned from WWE to NJPW and other promotions, remains a major earner. Her income is influenced by her NJPW contract, high-profile appearances, merchandise sales, and international endorsements.
13. Bianca Belair
Estimated Earnings: $3-5 million
Bianca Belair’s rapid rise in WWE is mirrored in her earnings. Her success is driven by her impressive performances, growing popularity, and increasing merchandise sales, positioning her as a notable earner in the wrestling industry.
14. Jack Perry (formerly Jungle Boy)
Estimated Earnings: $2-4 million
Jungle Boy’s earnings are rising as he gains prominence in AEW. His growing fan base and significant performances contribute to his increasing income, reflecting his potential as a rising star.
15. Rhea Ripley
Estimated Earnings: $2-3 million
Rhea Ripley’s position as a standout performer in WWE is evident in her earnings. Her salary and rising merchandise sales ensure she remains among the top earners in the industry, reflecting her impact and popularity.
Conclusion
The professional wrestling landscape of 2024 highlights substantial earnings for its top stars across WWE and AEW. These figures not only reflect their on-screen achievements but also their broader impact on the sport. As the industry continues to evolve, these wrestlers’ earnings are likely to grow, showcasing their significant contributions and popularity in the wrestling world.