$4,000 for an Indy Appearance?
A recent report on the status of AJ Styles says the former world champion is asking $3,000-4,000 per independent appearance. That may sound like a lot of money – to put it into perspective, we’ve paid former WWE stars and legends anywhere between $500-1000 for a non-wrestling appearance. Styles is a huge name and soon to be the biggest free agent on the market. The companies that can afford to book Styles will, and they’ll do more than break even. I’d like to caution those small time promoters that like running shows at local bars; things like autograph sessions and Q&A sessions. If you’re not experienced, bringing in a big name like AJ Styles for your local event might sound awesome, and you might be encouraged to drop your life savings doing so. But if you only have 100 people in attendance, do you expect to make $40 off each of them just to break even? That’s without hotel and travel fees, mind you. I’ve only done a couple of shows, but it’s really tough to make money off non-wrestling indie events (wrestling events are even more tricky) when you don’t have an established name, fan base, and hundreds of people willing to show up and give you their hard earned money.
I am excited to see where AJ goes if he doesn’t re-sign with TNA. Right now his scheduled appearances aren’t all that exciting, but he’s still technically under contract. He very well could retire, but I’m sure some fans would love to see a return to Ring of Honor, PWG or a stint in Japan.
Cesaro Swings into Babyface Mode
Another report by the Observer says WWE is close to turning Antonio Cesaro. He’s been getting a great reaction from crowds recently, and why not? WWE fans love to chant random shit, which is why “We the People” isn’t getting them over as heels. People genuinely like them, because the majority of fans know Zeb Colter is just trying to say whatever will get him heat; there’s got to be a minority of folks that actually agree with him too. The Cesaro Swing is also tailor made for a babyface pop. I think whatever Antonio Cesaro does he will succeed at, babyface or heel. I’ve watched his career since seeing him and Chris Hero tag for the first time in Ring of Honor, and I honestly think he’s never been better in terms of character development, and comfort in front of the fans. He’s upgraded from indie star to legitimate world-wide WWE Superstar, and contrary to some opinions, that’s a good thing.
