Swerve Strickland On WWE Allegedly Believing His New AEW Deal Is Above Market Value: "They Only Complain When A Black Person Gets Paid"

After cementing himself as one of the promotion's top stars in 2024, Swerve Strickland signed a new deal with All Elite Wrestling during the Summer which made him one of the top earners in AEW.

While many were happy for Strickland, reports noted that WWE thought the deal was bad for professional wrestling as the company considered Strickland's new AEW contract to be way over what WWE perceived his market value to be. How much Strickland is now earning from All Elite Wrestling is unknown but it is reportedly "well ahead" of Kevin Owens' current WWE deal of $2.25 million for year one, $2.5 million for year two, and $3 million for year three.

Strickland was asked about the report during an appearance on the Breakfast Club. He said:

"They only complain when a Black person gets paid, I will say that. We shake the foundation of things like that. 'Oh snap, wait. That's not what we would pay.' Then why are you calling me? Why are you asking me? If I'm not your concern then don't worry about it. Don't worry about my pockets and our money. We're good. You have your talent. You made your decision with me two years ago. No hard feelings from me. I keep it moving and I'm going to figure my way out and I'm going to build myself up."

Strickland has been absent from All Elite Wrestling programming since his loss to Hangman Page at All Out. Swerve is reportedly at least planned to make an appearance at the upcoming WrestleDream pay-per-view, however.

H/T Fightful