A former WWE Intercontinental Champion has offered a stark look at how wrestler royalties can play out long after a run ends.
In a post shared on Twitter, Marc Mero published a royalty statement dated December 19, 2019, highlighting the gap between revenue generated by his appearances and the money actually paid out. According to Mero, he was “partly responsible for $39,590.81 in revenue” during the reporting period, yet received a quarterly royalty cheque totalling just $71.47.
The documents included a detailed breakdown of video sales and licensing fees credited to World Wrestling Entertainment. For The Evolution of WWE, WWE reportedly earned $13,067.05, while Mero’s payout for that title was listed at $20.04. The Evolution of WWE’s W generated $7,678.00 for the company, with Mero receiving $11.78, while Monday Night War Vol. 2 showed WWE earnings of $1,933.25 compared to a $2.26 talent payment. The summary page indicated the $71.47 total included $42.71 from the current quarter and $28.76 in previously unpaid royalties.
Mero, who last wrestled for the company more than 20 years ago under the “Wildman” persona, said the statement was shared to answer ongoing questions about wrestler compensation.
“That’s the reality for a lot of wrestlers,” Mero wrote. “We helped build the brand, the characters, and the moments fans still watch today, yet the compensation rarely reflects the value that was created.”
How Long Was Marc Mero With WWE?
Marc Mero was under contract with WWE for approximately just under four years, joining the company in early 1996 and departing in late 1999. He initially arrived with significant fanfare after leaving WCW and was presented as “Wildman” Marc Mero.
While his in-ring run was relatively brief, it coincided with a major boom period for the company, meaning his likeness continued to be used across home video releases and archival content long after his exit.
