This is how much WWE pays their top talent in 2024

The life of a professional wrestler is tough. Not only do you have to be strong, athletic and charismatic (it’s an entertainment business after all) but you also have to contend with a grueling travel schedule and training regime. On top of that, given the dangerous nature of the work, a serious or life-ending injury is only a misstep away.

There is money to be made though, especially if you can make it to the top. WWE is by any measure the commercial peak of wrestling, so let’s look at the highest-paid athletes currently working on their books.

The Beast Incarnate, Brock Lesnar is WWE’s highest-paid wrestler.  Lesnar's formidable presence and impressive track record have enabled him to negotiate a contract that reportedly earns him around $5 million annually, according to ITN WWE. This is especially notable as he’s not even on a full-time contract.

Want to see more like this? Follow us here for daily sports news, profiles and analysis!

How long this will go on remains to be seen however as Lesnar has reportedly been implicated in the Vince McMahon sex trafficking lawsuit, despite not officially being named, according to Sports Illustrated, and WWE creatives have cancelled all forthcoming plans to feature Lesnar, including Wrestlemania.

"The Tribal Chief," Roman Reigns has solidified his position as WWE's top star both in and out of the ring. With his compelling character work and dominant in-ring performances, Reigns has captured the hearts of fans and executives alike. In 2024, he remains at the pinnacle of the WWE pay scale, with an annual salary of $5 million, according to Wrestling Observer, but also has a higher share of merchandise sales in his contract. 

A seasoned veteran in the wrestling business, Randy Orton's long and illustrious career has garnered him immense respect and success. Known for his methodical in-ring style and intense charisma, Orton's experience translates into a lucrative contract. It is estimated that Orton receives an annual salary in the range of $4.5 million, according to ITN WWE. 

Although transitioning to a part-time role due to his blossoming Hollywood career, John Cena remains an iconic figure in WWE. Known for his unwavering dedication to the business and remarkable connection with fans, Cena's charismatic presence is rewarded with an estimated annual income of $4 million.

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 $3.5 million.

The Game has of course moved into a more behind-the-scenes role as the Creative Head of WWE, in charge of booking both Smackdown and Raw. His base salary sits around $750,000 but goes up to around $3.3 million after bonuses and stock options come into play, according to ITN WWE.

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 receives an annual salary of $2.5 million, according to ITN WWE.

Want to see more like this? Follow us here for daily sports news, profiles and analysis!

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, Taker earns a reported $2.5m a year for his 'Legends' contract, according to Sportskeeda.

After a brief hiatus following the birth of her child, Becky Lynch returned to WWE and reclaimed her spot as one of the company's most beloved superstars. With her fiery personality, undeniable talent, and trailblazing presence as "The Man," Lynch's contract is reportedly valued at around $2.5 million per year, according to 888Sport.

As one of the most talented and decorated female wrestlers in WWE history, Charlotte Flair's rise to prominence has been nothing short of extraordinary. Daughter of legendary Ric Flair, Charlotte possesses a combination of athleticism, in-ring prowess, and star power that has earned her numerous championships and a contract reportedly worth $2 million per year, according to Sportskeeda.

Known for his incredible in-ring ability and captivating performances, AJ Styles has earned his spot as one of WWE's top earners. His reported annual salary stands at approximately $2 million, according to the International Business Times. 

A veteran of the industry, Bobby Lashley has solidified his position as a powerhouse in the WWE, holding the WWE title on two occasions. His impressive physique, in-ring skills, and commanding presence earn him an annual salary of approximately $1 million in 2024. according to Sportskeeda. 

While these wages aren’t anything to be sniffed, it has to be said in the world of professional sports (and acting) they aren’t that remarkable. Considering boxer Canelo Alvarez in 2022 made $110 million in fight money, according to TalkSport, and Cristiano Ronaldo is getting paid around $215 million to play football in Saudi Arabia each year, a top pay bracket of around $5 million isn’t that impressive.