Ranking the highest-paid WWE wrestlers in 2024

Laying the smackdown

Fans have flocked to watch the personality and athleticism of the entertainers in WWE for several decades.

Making the big bucks

Pro wrestling is one of the most brutal gigs out there, with a grueling travel schedule, brutal physicality, and a constant risk of severe injury, there are few jobs out there more demanding on one's body. For those at the top, however, they are well-rewarded for their hard work, earning huge pay-checks for their efforts.

Money in the bank

WWE is the top of the wrestling pyramid, with wrestlers from around the world striving to make it onto the promotion. Of those that have done some successfully, who are the highest paid this year?

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1. Brock Lesnar

"The Beast Incarnate", Brock Lesnar, remains WWE’s highest-paid wrestler in 2024, despite not appearing at any events this year. Lesnar's immense star power has enabled him to negotiate a contract reportedly worth around $5 million (€4.67 million / £4 million) annually, according to ITN WWE, all without taking a single bump.

Future in doubt

How long this will go on remains to be seen, however, as Lesnar has reportedly been implicated in the Vince McMahon legal issues, despite not officially being named, according to Sports Illustrated. He's basically been written out of the storylines for now, and when that could change is anybody's guess.

2. Roman Reigns

"The Tribal Chief," Roman Reigns has solidified his position as WWE's top star both in and out of the ring. In 2024, he remains at the pinnacle of the WWE pay scale, with an annual salary of $5 million (€4.67 million / £4 million), according to Sports Illustrated, but also has a higher share of merchandise sales in his contract.

3. Randy Orton

A seasoned veteran, Randy Orton's long and successful career has earned him immense respect in the wrestling world. Known for his methodical in-ring style and intense charisma, Orton's experience has translated into a lucrative contract. According to Sports Illustrated, his estimated annual salary is around $4 million (€3.7 million / £3.2 million).

4. Cody Rhodes

Sitting at number four on our list, current Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes returned to WWE in 2022, quickly rising as the top babyface. He won consecutive Royal Rumbles before dethroning Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40. Ahead of Mania, Rhodes signed a two-year contract extension worth $3 million (€2.8 million / £2.4 million) annually, solidifying his place at the top.

5. AJ Styles

AJ Styles is one of the most decorated and accomplished wrestlers on WWE’s current roster. In February 2022, Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer and Fightful's Sean Ross Sapp reported that Styles re-signed a multi-year contract worth $3 million (€2.8 million / £2.4 million). A two-time WWE Champion, Styles is widely regarded as one of the world’s best wrestlers and deserves every penny he earns.

6. Seth Rollins

A cornerstone of WWE's roster, Rollins has cemented his status as one of the company's most bankable superstars. His exceptional in-ring abilities, combined with his natural charisma and compelling character work, have garnered him a significant payday. Rollins is rumored to receive an annual salary in the range of $3 million (€2.8 million / £2.4 million), according to Sports Illustrated.

7. The Miz

A seasoned performer and charismatic entertainer, The Miz has become a mainstay in WWE. Known for his outspoken personality and impressive mic skills, he reportedly earns an annual salary of $2.5 million (€2.33 million / £2 million), according to ITN WWE.

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8. The Undertaker

Not working as a talent in the traditional sense, but "The Dead Man" is so beloved by WWE they didn’t want to lose his experience and nouse for the business as he stepped away from the grind. As such, The Undertaker earns a reported $2.5m (€2.33 million / £2 million) a year for his 'Legends' contract, according to Sportskeeda.

9. Kevin Owens

Kevin Owens has proven himself as a WWE workhorse over the past decade since signing in 2014. With his current $2 million (€1.87 million / £1.6 million) contract expiring later this year, WWE will be eager to retain him as one of its most reliable and popular stars.

10. Charlotte Flair

Charlotte Flair, one of WWE’s most talented and decorated female wrestlers, has risen to prominence through a blend of athleticism, in-ring skill, and star power. As the daughter of legend Ric Flair, she has carved out her own legacy, winning numerous championships. According to Sportskeeda, her star status is reflected in her reported $2 million (€1.87 million / £1.6 million) annual contract.

11. CM Punk

CM Punk made his highly anticipated WWE return at Survivor Series 2023. Since then, his popularity has surged after nearly a decade away, making him one of the top babyfaces in wrestling today. Punk signed a multi-year contract worth $1.5 million (€1.4 million / £1.2 million), which WWE is reportedly looking to extend even further.

12. Drew McIntyre

One of the year's most high-profile re-signings was Drew McIntyre. After months of speculation, McIntyre confirmed his new WWE contract, reportedly worth $1 million (€935,000 / £810,000) according to Sports Illustrated. As the lead heel on Monday Night Raw, "The Scottish Warrior" is set to remain a central figure on the brand.

A world away from the highest paid

While these wages are significant, they’re not particularly remarkable in the world of professional sports ... or acting for that matter! For comparison, Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly earning around $215 million (€201 million / £174 million) annually to play football in Saudi Arabia. Given these figures, a top pay bracket of around $5 million (€4.67 million / £4 million) seems less impressive.

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