WWE legend Kevin Nash has never been one to hold back his thoughts, and his latest comments have sparked fresh discussion among wrestling fans. On his Kliq This podcast, Nash opened up about the major changes wrestlers are feeling since the TKO Group Holdings takeover, claiming that the royalty checks many veterans receive have sharply declined.
The WWE–TKO Merger’s Financial Impact
When WWE and UFC merged under TKO Group Holdings in 2023, it was billed as a historic deal that would create a sports entertainment powerhouse. However, Nash suggests that not everyone is benefiting from the new corporate structure.
He revealed that the royalty payments — long a small but steady income source for retired wrestlers — have become “rotten,” meaning noticeably smaller or inconsistent compared to previous years.
“I used to at least know what was coming every quarter,” Nash said. “Now it’s a joke. You look at the number and you just shake your head.”
What Are WWE Royalty Payments?
WWE pays royalties to former and current superstars based on merchandise sales, video releases, and the use of their likeness in licensed products or streaming content. For many veterans, these checks are a way to stay financially secure after stepping out of the ring.
But according to Nash, the system seems to have changed post-TKO merger. While the company’s focus has shifted toward streaming deals and digital licensing, the payouts tied to older physical media — like DVDs and pay-per-view replays — have reportedly decreased.
Fans React to Nash’s Comments
The wrestling community quickly took to social media after Nash’s remarks, with many echoing his concerns. Some fans questioned whether other legends like Mick Foley, Booker T, or Shawn Michaels have faced similar issues. Others speculated that the decline could be due to WWE’s shift away from DVD sales toward the WWE Network and Peacock streaming platform.
Still, a few fans defended the new system, suggesting that changing media formats naturally impact royalty structures. “Streaming doesn’t pay the same way physical sales did,” one user commented on Reddit. “That’s just how the industry has evolved.”
WWE Raw Results: CM Punk Returns, Becky Lynch Battles Maxxine Dupri (2025)
A Call for Transparency
Nash didn’t call out any individuals directly but made it clear that he believes the company owes veterans an explanation. “I’m not asking for charity,” he said. “I’m asking for fairness. We helped build this brand — and all we want is transparency.”
Industry analysts agree that as WWE continues to grow under TKO, more retired stars could start speaking up about their compensation. The merger brought in billions in valuation, but as Nash’s comments highlight, that success doesn’t always trickle down to those who helped create the brand’s legacy.
Looking Ahead
Kevin Nash remains one of the most respected voices in professional wrestling, and when he talks, people listen. His statements raise a larger question about how major entertainment companies treat the talent that built their foundations.
As WWE prepares for another major year under TKO leadership, fans and wrestlers alike will be watching closely to see if the “Big Kev” spotlight brings any real changes behind the scenes.