Numerous individuals often wonder why World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) attracts an enormous audience, but the answer for devoted followers of professional wrestling is quite straightforward. Wrestling is beyond an exciting and dramatic sport packed with incredibly fit competitors. Numerous elements contribute to its outstanding allure, including its enigmatic character, wild plots, legendary heroes, and antagonists that the audience thrives on disliking.
Wrestling is a mesmerizing mixture of sports skills and theatrical stunts, enabling narratives to unfold in a ring rather than on a cinema screen. Many have likened WWE storylines to daytime television dramas or soap operas, a sentiment we echo. It’s clear wrestlers truly relish their drama! Unquestionably, this wildly favored form of amusement will maintain its success for many future years. To pay tribute to this cherished sport, we’ve collated a list of both male and female professional wrestlers, ready to divulge their net worth, current activities, and all the drama that occurs both in and outside the ring.
BIG SHOW (Net Worth: $20 MILLION)
As a crowd-favorite, he’s appeared in quite a few films and TV shows. His last movie appearance was in a comedy titled Knucklehead. Here’s one interesting fact about Big Show: he’s barely spent any of his career earnings and is currently holding an estimated net worth of $20 million.
The wrestling career of our initial athlete began under the modest sobriquet – The Giant. However, as time rolled on, he acquired a fresher and snappier moniker, Big Show. His prosperous wrestling journey as a seven-time world champion not only brought him fame but also opened the doors to some acting opportunities.
TUGBOAT (Net Worth: UNKNOWN)
Fred Ottman, also known by his aliases – Tugboat or Typhoon, was notably a formidable wrestler and a former ally of Hulk Hogan during his prime time. He went on to establish and subsequently became a part of a team titled The Natural Disasters (inspiring his alias, Typhoon). However, after a successful streak in wrestling, Ottman decided to retire in 2001 and delve into a strikingly normal profession as a safety manager based in Florida.
Typhoon, now aged 61, is relishing his retirement life. He has taken up coaching duties for the youth teams in which his sons play. His exact net worth might be undisclosed, but one thing is certain – his prosperous wrestling career has assured him of financial stability.
KANE (Net Worth: $9 MILLION)
At 51, Glenn Thomas Jacobs, better known as Kane, proves that age doesn’t determine one’s capability. Although his years add up, he continues to actively be a part of WWE, occasionally showing his prowess on the SmackDown brand. Apart from wrestling, Jacobs has proven his mettle as an entrepreneur, politician, and actor.
He landed a role in See No Evil, which was quite a big hit, and in 2018, he managed to win the hearts of Knox County residents who elected him as their mayor. Proving that he’s the king of versatility, Glenn is also an insurer. That said, it should come as no surprise that he has an impressive net worth of $9 million.
THE ULTIMATE WARRIOR (DECEASED)
As a fan of WWE, you would likely be familiar with James Brian Hellwig, also known as the famous Ultimate Warrior. Besides, he was often referred to as The Warrior or the Dingo Warrior. In 1993, showcasing his dedication to his persona, Hellwig even legally adopted the name Warrior.
Prior to his demise, there were persistent speculations suggesting that the actual Warrior had died long before and an impersonator had been wrestling under his moniker. However, this was not the situation. Warrior actually passed away in 2014, succumbing to a heart attack at the age of 54.
RICK FLAIR (Net Worth: $3 MILLION)
It’s hard to imagine anyone who isn’t familiar with Rick Flair. He has amassed a large number of fans over his forty-year career and continues to be considered one of the best wrestlers of all time. Flair was crowned world champion 16 times (though, according to him, the count stands at 21).
Flair, similar to numerous other wrestlers, was often seen on TV. Even amid his success and wealth, he endured hardships, particularly the tragic loss of his son. Reid, who followed in his father’s footsteps as a professional wrestler, tragically lost his life due to an overdose of heroin and Xanax.
MACHO MAN (DECEASED)
Regardless of your interest in wrestling, the name “Macho Man” most likely rings a bell. Randy Savage, deemed one of the finest wrestlers in history, is still held in high regard today. Undeniably, his remarkable wrestling career spanning across 32 years, during which he secured an impressive 29 titles, showcases his phenomenal strength and talent.
Like many of his fellow wrestlers, Macho Man appeared in movies and TV shows, such as Ready to Rumble, Spider-Man, and Baywatch. Sadly, he died in a car crash in 2011. The autopsy showed that the likely cause of the crash was a heart attack.
REY MYSTERIO (Net Worth: $10M)
Also known as Rey Mysterio, Óscar Gutiérrez garnered popularity for his iconic masks reminiscent of Mexico’s Lucha Libre wrestlers. His unique wrestling approach gained him significant recognition during the ’90s and early 2000s. Throughout his decade-long professional wrestling career, Gutiérrez triumphed in numerous major championships, such as the World Heavyweight Championship, WWE Cruiserweight Championship, and the WWE Championship.
Interestingly, the King of Mystery looks exactly as he does ten years ago! He is still in wrestling today and his trademark masks only get better as the years go by. Rey Mysterio has also been spotted on independent wrestling shows like Black Destiny Wrestling, House of Glory, and QPW.
SUNNY (Net Worth: $300K)
Famed as Sunny among wrestling enthusiasts, Tammy Lynn Sytch fell prey to the allure of celebrity and wealth. Succumbing to drug and alcohol abuse for an extended period, she ultimately faced her downfall with her incarceration in 2017.
Unsurprisingly, WWE terminated her contract right away. Speculations are rife that Sunny aims to reconstruct her life and is considering another stint at rehabilitation. We extend our hopes for a wholesome and serene future for her.
RAZOR RAMON (Net Worth: $3 MILLION)
Scott Oliver Hall is a testament to the fact that perseverance and diligence can yield success. He ascended to becoming a professional wrestler in the 1980s and meticulously climbed the ladder for nearly ten years prior to securing his debut in his initial WCW and WWF bouts in the 1990s.
Razor Ramon has reveled in fame following his four victories as the WWF Intercontinental Champion. However, he is reportedly struggling with significant health problems and has frequently been hospitalized due to double pneumonia, seizures, and hypotension. Our thoughts are with you, Mr. Razor Ramon, and we hope for your swift recuperation!
CHYNA (DECEASED)
The formidable Joan Marie Laurer, also recognized in the wrestling arena as Chyna, was indeed a force to contend with. She first graced the WWF scene in the 1990s and was the pioneering woman wrestler in both the King of the Ring and Royal Rumble matches. That’s a testament to female strength!
Chyna was a trailblazer for women in wrestling, being among the first to embrace the bodybuilding component of the sport. After she retired from wrestling, she authored an autobiography. She also ventured into the adult industry. Tragically, she became one of the numerous wrestlers who lost their lives prematurely, succumbing to a drug overdose in 2016.
SABLE (Net Worth: $1.5 MILLION)
Joining Chyna in our roster of women of strength is Rena Marlette Lesnar. Also known as Sable, the fiery blonde was one of the first WWE Divas. She gained massive popularity, not just as a wrestler, but also as a model. Sable also tried her hand at acting, appearing in various movies like Corky Romano and Pacific Blue.
Her initial matrimony sadly concluded when her spouse lost his life in a vehicular mishap. Her subsequent married life dissolved swiftly in a divorce resulting from incompatibility. However, in the year 2006, she met a man appearing to be an ideal fit for her, a fellow wrestling professional, Brock Lesnar. The couple continues to lead a blissful married life.
THE GREAT KHALI (Net Worth: $16 Million)
With a height of 7 feet 1 inch, the Great Khali is notably one of the tallest professional wrestlers ever. Dalip Singh Rana, as he was known before his wrestling career, served in the Punjab State Police prior to dominating in the wrestling ring.
Despite retiring from the world of wrestling, Khali is deeply committed to imparting his wisdom and abilities. So, he established his own wrestling academy, Continental Wrestling Entertainment, in 2015. Nevertheless, it appears he’s yet to completely disconnect from the arena – this daunting contestant made a comeback to WWE in 2017 and provided his ally Jinder Mahal with some aid at the Battleground. Also worth noting is that The Great Khali enjoys celebrity status on television both in the US and India.
SID VICIOUS (Net Worth: $5 MILLION)
Sid Eudy, also recognized by his ring name Sid Vicious, is a seasoned professional wrestler from the vintage era. He embarked on his wrestling career in the 1980s, beginning his journey at World Championship Wrestling before joining the ranks of WWF and WWE.
Sid Vicious, during his professional wrestling career, managed to secure several championship belts. Today, at 57, he is steeped in retirement. However, even at the age of 51, he was able-bodied enough to remain a competitor. This clearly demonstrated to everyone that age is not a barrier if you’re determined to achieve your objectives.
THE COACH (Net Worth: $2 MILLION)
Jonathan Coachman is not one to shy away from the limelight even after retiring from wrestling, contrary to many of his peers. He is actively involved in the Raw brand as a color commentator and astoundingly enough, he decided to renew his contract with the WWE in 2018. It remains to be seen whether his return proves to be an exhilarating rebound or a spectacular downfall.
The Coach is blissfully wedded, a father to two kids, and has an estimated wealth of around $2 million. This figure is anticipated to rise with the recent contract he signed. Isn’t it astonishing that he’s already 45?
MIDEON (Net Worth: UNKNOWN)
Dennis Knight, widely recognized for his in-ring personas Mideon, Tex Slazenger, and Phineas I. Godwin, is a retired professional wrestler who gained popularity during his stint with World Champion Wrestling from 1992 to 1994. After retirement, Knight turned to coaching, imparting his wrestling knowledge to students at a school located in his hometown, Tampa, Florida.
Following his 2006 retirement, he pursued a career as a chef in Clearwater, Florida. Interested in sampling Mideon’s culinary creations? We’re confident this detail-oriented pugilist prepares each dish flawlessly!
SKINNER (Net Worth: $1.5 MILLION)
Steve Keirn, once famously known as Skinner, is a representative of the earlier era in wrestling. He showcased his talent on several occasions with the World Wrestling Federation and was a part of the renowned team, The Fabulous.
Skinny, like numerous others, hung up his wrestling boots but his passion for the sport never faded. In fact, he went on to establish his own wrestling school in the 1980s. Even at the age of 66, he maintains a healthy physique. Presently, he leads a joyful married life and resides in Florida.
SCOTTY 2 HOTTY (Net Worth: UNKNOWN)
Renowned by his ring aliases, Scott Taylor and Scotty 2 Hotty, Scott Ronald Garland transitioned to a coaching role at the WWE Performance Center following the conclusion of his wrestling career.
He attempted to switch his professional trajectory in 2013 by enrolling in firefighter training. However, the allure of wrestling- the glaring lights and cheering fans, beckoned him back, leading to his decision to rejoin the WWE in 2016. In a conversation, Scotty 2 Hotty shared, he is putting more effort into his well-being compared to previous years, leading him to achieve the best fitness level he’s ever had.
KELLY KELLY (Net Worth: $1 MILLION)
Barbara Jean Blank is yet another woman wrestler mentioned on our list, but you might know her better by her ring name, Kelly Kelly. Besides her illustrious wrestling career, she also juggles modelling and television appearances, testifying to her diversified fame and success.
She retired from the WWE in 21012 but still manages to get a great deal of public attention. Kelly Kelly made many appearances on television, most famously on E! and Days of Our Lives. By the way, did you know that she has a background in gymnastics and cheerleading?
MR. MCMAHON (Net Worth: $1.7 BILLION)
In case you’re a zealous enthusiast of wrestling, you’re likely familiar with Vincent Kennedy McMahon. He happens to be the proprietor and chief executive officer of WWE. One might assume his roles to be quite demanding already, but evidently, Mr. McMahon has a different perspective.
The businessman, film producer, and actor is also the founder of Alpha Entertainment. Now we understand where his whopping $1.7 billion net worth comes from! He was also named on Forbes magazine‘s annual list of billionaires. The mega-rich wrestling magnate owns several mansions and a yacht, among other luxuries.
YOKOZUNA (DECEASED)
Were you aware that the first Samoan wrestler Rodney Agatupa Anoaʻi, also known as Yokozuna, clinched the WWF World Heavyweight Championship becoming the unique representative of his ethnicity to win this title?
In 2000, he passed away unexpectedly during his tour in Europe. The pro-wrestler, Yokozuna, was found dead in his hotel room, leading to speculation that his heart attack may have been a result of his heavy weight. Ultimately, pulmonary edema was listed as the official cause of his demise. He was only 34 years old. Interestingly, his stage name, Yokozuna, represents the top tier in the world of sumo wrestling.
GOLDBERG (Net Worth: $14 MILLION)
A wrestler who made a significant impact in the 1990s was William Scott Goldberg, known in the ring as Goldberg. This 51-year old individual, who is not only a wrestler but also an actor and prior football player, grew in popularity when he sustained an undefeated streak for an entire year, from 1997 to 1998.
A popular figure during the 90s, Goldberg has also appeared in various films and television shows such as Universal Soldier: The Return and Family Guy. He is doing very well for himself nowadays and enjoys spending time with his family. He also owns a gym with an amateur boxing facility in California.
JACQUELINE (Net Worth: UNKNOWN)
Jacqueline DeLois Moore is a well-known personality in the realm of wrestling. Not only is she a professional wrestler, but she also manages wrestling professionally. Jacqueline marked her name as the third woman to secure a Cruiserweight Championship title in WWE. In 2016, her achievements were recognised when she was welcomed into the WWE Hall of Fame.
Like many famous WWE wrestlers, Moore has appeared in a number of different video games. She also worked as a trainer on the MTV reality TV show Tough Enough. As she nears her 60s, Jacqueline still looks fabulous, which is obviously the result of her regular exercise and healthy lifestyle.
STONE COLD STEVE AUSTIN (Net Worth: 45 MILLION)
Stone Cold Steve Austin, a renowned former professional wrestler, accomplished numerous remarkable achievements throughout his tenure in the wrestling world. However, he made the decision to retire when his physical traumas became excessively demanding on his body.
Austin’s estimated net worth of $45 million does not come as a big surprise. Aside from being a six-time WWF Champion and the winner of 19 other championships, Austin also focused on his acting career after retiring from the ring. He made many appearances in movies and TV shows, including Nash Bridges and The Expendables.
THE ROCK (Net Worth: $220 MILLION)
Let’s discuss Dwayne Douglas Johnson, otherwise known as The Rock. His reputation grew not only from his talents in wrestling but also through his prosperous career in acting. It appears that whatever endeavor he takes on, he manages to shine.
Time magazine named him as one of the most influential people in the world, which is unsurprising when you consider how many successful business ventures he has to his name (not to mention his net worth of $220 million). Dwayne may be a tough guy, but he has a soft heart. In fact, he founded the Dwayne Johnson Rock Foundation that helps terminally ill children.
MICK FOLEY (Net Worth: $15 MILLION)
At different times in his career, Michael Francis Foley was known by multiple names including Mick Foley, Dude Love, Cactus Jack, and Mankind. He chose to exit the professional wrestling ring somewhat prematurely as he sought another career direction in the entertainment industry. Foley expanded his horizons by showcasing his skills in a variety of films, television series, and radio shows.
Foley even appeared as Mankind in one episode of the TV series Boy Meets World. In real life he has a big heart does a lot of charity work, mostly to help children in need. These days, he is doing very well for himself and lives a happy life with his wife and four children.
BATISTA (Net Worth: $13 MILLION)
It’s reassuring to learn that numerous retired professional wrestlers are relishing their regular life away from the wrestling ring. Included in these is David Michael Bautista Jr. He is not only a former professional wrestler but also a mixed martial artist, bodybuilder, and actor.
After ending his wrestling career, Batista pursued an acting career and appeared in several movies like Riddick, Spectre, The Man with the Iron Fists, and as ‘Drax’ in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. There was a company that was investigated for prescription drugs and claimed that he was using steroids. The accusations could not be validated and Batista denied everything.
HULK HOGAN (Net Worth: $25 MILLION)
Terre Gene Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, is considered as one of the greatest and most universally adored wrestlers in history. He belongs to an exclusive group of early-era professional wrestlers who played a pivotal role in shaping the wrestling industry. Not limiting himself to wrestling alone, he also made a significant mark in related areas of the entertainment sector. He made numerous TV appearances, establishing himself as a television personality.
Hulk Hogan achieved prosperity in nearly all his endeavors. Aside from starting his energy drink brand, he oversees the Hogan Nutrition web platform, offering guidance on dietary habits and supplement intake. However, in 2007, he experienced a turbulent divorce that almost cost him everything. Fortunately, he was able to pull himself together and bounced back. Impressively, despite the advancing years, he retains good physical condition.
RANDY ORTON (Net Worth: $11 MILLION)
One extraordinary wrestler on this list who never grows tired of the sport is Randy Orton. Aside from competing in SmackDown, he is gearing up to have a promising acting career. Indeed, he’s already appeared in the comedy-drama That’s What I Am.
You may also have seen Orton on Jimmy Kimme Live! and Deal or No Deal. In 2007, he was accused of using steroids but never made any official comments on the claim. In 2013, he divorced his first wife, Samantha Speno, marrying Kimberly Kessler two years later.
EDGE (Net Worth: $14 MILLION)
Adam Joseph Copeland, better known as Edge, became an actor after retiring from professional wrestling. He appeared in the fantasy film Highlander: Endgame and WWE Studios’ Bending the Rules. He is considered one of the best wrestlers in the history of the WWE, and with 31 championships under his belt, is also a member of the wrestling Hall of Fame.
Did you know that Edge hates cigarettes? He tried smoking when he was a teen but hated it so much that he never touched one again. In 2004, he wrote and published his autobiography titled Adam Copeland on Edge.
LITA (Net Worth: $4 MILLION)
Were you aware that the gifted vocalist, Amy Dumas – also known as Lita – retired from her wrestling career in 2006? Despite her retirement, she continues to remain associated with WWE in the capacity of an analyst.
After retiring from her career in professional wrestling, Lita established a punk band known as The Luchagors. The band produced their debut album a year later. Consistent with her healthy way of living, she adheres to a vegan dietary regimen. She has had romantic relationships with Matt Hardy and Joseph Copeland, but she hasn’t found the person she wishes to share her life with yet.
SHAWN MICHAELS (Net Worth:$17 MILLION)
Four-time world champion wrestler Michael Shawn Hickenbottom is better known by his ring name, Shawn Michaels. He is a two time WWE Hall of Famer and has won the Royal Rumble twice. After retirement, the professional wrestler ventured into the acting industry and became a television presenter. You may have seen him in the 2017 film The Resurrection of Gavin Stone.
Today, Michaels is known as the main ambassador for WWE. He also hosts an outdoor show about hunting animals called Shawn Michaels’ MacMillan River Adventures. He is happily married to his second wife, Rebecca, with whom he has two children.
ALUNDRA BLAYZE (Net Worth: UNKNOWN)
Debrah Ann Miceli, also known as Alundra Blayze and Madusa, is a noteworthy figure in our roster of influential female wrestlers. She made history as the inaugural female recipient of Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s Rookie of the Year award in 1988.
Madusa has a great love for monster trucks and has been collecting and driving them for years. When she left the wrestling industry, she became an actress and appeared in movies like Shootfighter II and Death Match.
BOOKER T (Net Worth: $5 MILLION)
Apart from his achievement of being a world champion six times, Robert Booker Tio Huffman, commonly known as Booker T, possesses 21 additional championships from his wrestling career. After stepping down from his wrestling endeavors, he transitioned into roles such as a commentator and a promoter, positions he continues to hold presently.
Booker T’s estimated net worth is $5 million and this is likely to increase in the coming years thanks to his appearances in 27 video games. He also has two published books and several movie gigs to his name. Curious about Booker T’s acting skills? Check him in Ready to Rumble, and if you can dig it up, an episode of Charmed.
TRIPLE H (Net Worth:$40 MILLION)
Paul Michel Levesque, a renowned business executive and actor, is more commonly identified by his stage name, Triple H, an abbreviation for Hunter Hearts Helmsley. His marital union with Stephanie McMahon in 2003 positioned him directly in the center of the powerful McMahon family.
Triple H currently holds the position of Executive Vice-President of Talent, Live Events, and Creative, and his wealth is consistently increasing with a yearly salary of $1.5 million. Despite this, he is generous with his earnings, contributing significantly to charitable causes. Together with his wife, they established Connor’s Cure – a cancer charity fund named after an 8-year old boy who succumbed to the disease.
STACY KEIBLER (Net Worth:$4.5 MILLION)
Stacy Kiebler is more famous as an actor than a wrestler. Over the years, she’s managed to snag gigs on popular TV shows such as How I Met Your Mother, What About Brian, and George Lopez.
In 2013, she hosted Supermarket Superstar and appeared on Runway. Her stunning looks caught the eye of George Clooney and she dated him for a while. However, she eventually settled down with Jared Pobre. The happy couple now has two children together.
CHRIS BENOIT (DECEASED)
Perhaps the most sorrowful tale in professional wrestling belongs to Christopher Michael Benoit. His life came under public scrutiny after he committed a horrific act of murdering his wife and son on June 22, 2007. He then proceeded to take his own life by hanging two days later. During this time, he was operating as a professional wrestler.
The dreadful demise of the family left the general public perplexed, leading to rumors that the murder could have been triggered by depression or brain trauma associated with his profession. Upon discovering the shocking murder-suicide, WWE responded by erasing all mentions and references of Benoit from their site.
TRISH STRATUS (Net Worth: $6 MILLION)
Introducing Patricia Anne Strategies, better known as Trish Stratus, the youngest inductee to the WWE Hall of Fame! Alongside her acclaimed wrestling career, Stratus has extended her talents to fitness modeling, acting, and television hosting.
The fitness model from Canada has adorned the covers of numerous magazines over the years. She ventured into the world of yoga after her wrestling career ended in 2008 and even established her own yoga studio. Her smart choice in switching careers paid off when her yoga venue was crowned the best yoga studio at the 2013 Top Choice Awards. Stratus, like several of her wrestling counterparts, is generous with her resources, dedicating both time and funds to philanthropic endeavors.