Sami Zayn has been a fan-favorite and a significant name in the professional wrestling industry for years. However, his loyalty to WWE has always been unwavering, and that is due to the incredible journey and opportunities that the company has given him.
Despite being a highly coveted name in the indie wrestling circuit, Zayn made a significant sacrifice when he signed with WWE and joined the developmental NXT brand. He took a considerable pay cut to secure his spot, which is something that is rare in the wrestling business. In a recent appearance on the Whiskey Ginger podcast, Zayn spoke candidly about his experience:
“I signed my first WWE contract for $39,000. Because it was developmental, but you obviously get to make money later, which is what happened. So, I wasn’t too nearsighted about it, thinking that I was worth so much more. You kinda understand when to take it on the chin, and when you’ll make it up.”
Despite the initial setback, Zayn’s career with WWE took off, and he quickly found himself on the road doing loops. He started earning extra cash, and it was at that point that he had an epiphany. Zayn realized that he was in the wrestling business to make money and build a career, and WWE was the perfect place to do that.
Within eight months of signing with WWE, Zayn was already on the road, and while he was only making $50,000, he received a lightbulb moment when his first significant paycheck came in:
“At that point, I had like a light bulb moment where I realized, ‘Oh my god, I’m here to make money.’ Money is so not why I do this. Don’t get me wrong — I enjoy having it versus not having it.”
Fast forward to the present day, and Zayn is still with WWE, and his career has never been better. He is currently in a big six-man tag team match at Backlash, where he will team up with Matt Riddle and Kevin Owens to take on Solo Sikoa and The Usos. This match may signify the end of his storyline with the Bloodline, but in WWE, anything is possible.
Zayn’s dedication and loyalty to WWE are admirable, and his story is a testament to the fact that sometimes, taking a risk and making a sacrifice can pay off in the long run. Fans will undoubtedly be eager to see what’s next for the talented wrestler as he continues to make waves in the wrestling industry.
