The Case of Erik’s Extended WWE Contract
Summary
– WWE extended Erik’s contract due to his time missed from a major neck injury.
– The company uses Ivar, Erik’s tag team partner, in solo matches during Erik’s absence.
– This approach marks a shift from WWE’s past practice of sidelining entire tag teams when one member is injured.
WWE has a strategic approach to managing injured superstars, maximizing their investment, and ensuring that injuries don’t hinder their contractual obligations. A prime example of this strategy is the case of Erik from the Viking Raiders. Erik has been absent from WWE television due to a significant neck injury requiring fusion surgery, which has sidelined him for an extended period.
Erik’s last wrestling match was on the September 14th episode of WWE Main Event, recorded on September 11th. He was scheduled to appear on the September 18th episode of WWE Raw but could not participate due to his injury. Sean Sapp of Fightful reported that Erik’s contract would be extended due to the time missed from his injury.
This decision to extend Erik’s contract reflects WWE’s policy of ensuring injured wrestlers fulfill their contractual dates once they recover. Interestingly, WWE has been using Ivar, Erik’s tag team partner, as a solo wrestler during Erik’s absence. This approach differs from the past practice under Vince McMahon, where the entire tag team would typically be off television if one member were injured.
The extension of Erik’s contract and the solo push of Ivar raise questions about the future of the Viking Raiders and how WWE plans to reintegrate Erik once he returns. Fans and insiders are watching closely to see how WWE navigates these situations and utilizes its talent, especially in injury-related absences.
