Sami Zayn was making more money on the independents than what he was paid in NXT.
When Zayn made his way to the company, he was instantly put in a title chasing position that would lead to him eventually becoming NXT Champion.
In the years since, Sami has managed to become one of the most over acts in professional wrestling.
While speaking to the Whiskey Ginger podcast, Sami Zayn explained that when he signed with WWE years ago, he became part of the NXT brand.
“I signed my first WWE contract for $39,000. Because it was developmental, but you obviously get to make money later, which is what happened. So, I wasn’t too nearsighted about it, thinking that I was worth so much more. You kinda understand when to take it on the chin, and when you’ll make it up.”
“Within eight months, they started sending me on the road to do road loops. At that point, I was making only $50,000, but when the first check came in for the road loop, there was 6 or 7 grand in there. At that point, I had like a light bulb moment where I realized, ‘Oh my god, I’m here to make money.’ Money is so not why I do this. Don’t get me wrong — I enjoy having it versus not having it.”
Sami Zayn
Sami is currently one half of the Undisputed tag team champions and will be competing on tonight’s Backlash show in a six man tag match vs The Bloodline.
H/T to Ringside News
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