Last week, reports emerged regarding WWE’s negotiations with L.A. Knight for a new contract, following his victory in the Slim Jim Battle Royal. It was suggested that a significant push awaited him once the contract was finalized. However, recent updates shed more light on the situation.
According to Fightful Select, Knight and WWE remain significantly apart in terms of financial compensation, with no imminent deal in sight. Knight’s existing contract extends well into 2025, providing approximately a year and a half for both parties to reach a new agreement. It was also noted that any potential push for Knight is not contingent on a new contract, as numerous talents have contracts set to expire in the next year or two, making his situation fairly common.
Within WWE management, Knight is reportedly highly regarded, receiving notable support from WWE star John Cena. Cena not only counted the pinfall in Knight’s victory over former WWE Champion The Miz but also raised Knight’s hand before the crowd at the Payback event in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania’s PPG Paints Arena earlier this month.
Currently, WWE’s corporate headquarters are navigating various directions, particularly as the company finalizes its merger with UFC under its new parent company, Endeavor. WWE and UFC will coexist within the corporate structure of the newly formed TKO Group Holdings, a live entertainment and media entity valued at over $21 billion. The merger deal is anticipated to close on Tuesday.