Roman Reigns at risk of losing his huge $15 million contract? The shocking story behind TKO’s decision that angers fans
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, TKO Group Holdings — the new parent company of WWE — is reportedly looking to renegotiate Roman Reigns’s staggering $15 million contract. For a man who has carried WWE on his shoulders for the past four years, the news has left both fans and insiders stunned — and angry.
The Tribal Chief’s contribution
Since returning with his iconic Tribal Chief persona in 2020, Roman Reigns transformed WWE’s product during one of its most challenging periods. Through the pandemic, empty arenas, and uncertain times, Reigns became the anchor of WWE programming.
His historic 1,316-day Universal Championship reign drew critical acclaim, boosted ratings, and drove merchandise sales. Even WWE’s lucrative billion-dollar media deals — such as the Peacock streaming partnership and the recent Netflix deal — unfolded during his era of dominance.
For many fans, Roman Reigns wasn’t just another champion — he was the reason WWE remained relevant and profitable in a shifting entertainment landscape.
TKO’s corporate logic
However, now that WWE is part of TKO — the same corporate entity that owns UFC — things are changing. Reports suggest that TKO executives see Reigns’s current contract as disproportionate, especially since he now wrestles a part-time schedule (appearing at major PPVs and select SmackDown episodes only).
From a pure numbers standpoint, $15 million annually for limited dates is seen as “expensive” and inconsistent with TKO’s current drive to optimize costs and streamline talent contracts.
But to fans — and many WWE insiders — this approach misses the bigger picture: Roman Reigns has already earned every dollar of that contract, by helping elevate the entire brand.
Fan backlash builds
As news of TKO’s intentions broke online, #RespectRoman and #TKOGreed began trending on X (formerly Twitter).
Many fans feel this is blatant disrespect toward a performer who sacrificed personal time, took creative risks, and weathered media criticism to help WWE reach unprecedented financial success.
Worse, there’s concern this move could set a dangerous precedent for other top stars — if even Roman Reigns can have his deal devalued after delivering so much, who’s safe?
Potential outcomes
Negotiations are reportedly ongoing. Sources say Roman’s camp is “aware and unhappy” with TKO’s positioning.
Several outcomes are possible:
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Reigns accepts a new deal, but likely with significant creative or personal concessions.
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Negotiations stall, and Roman reduces appearances even further — or takes a break.
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A public standoff emerges, harming locker room morale and WWE’s reputation with talent.
For now, WWE fans and Roman’s loyal supporters are watching closely — and loudly voicing their discontent.
As one fan put it on Reddit:
“If Roman hadn’t carried this company through the hardest era in modern wrestling, there wouldn’t be any billion-dollar deals for TKO to boast about today. They should be honoring him — not gutting his deal.”
Final thoughts
In an era where corporate interests often clash with creative legacy, this story is a stark reminder: no one is untouchable in today’s WWE — not even the Tribal Chief himself.
How this saga ends could shape the company’s relationship with its talent for years to come.
