Former WCW/WWE referee Nick Patrick recently shared some insights about his time in the wrestling industry. In an interview on Monday Mailbox, Patrick discussed various topics, including his transition from WCW to WWE and the significant pay cut he took in the process.
After the sale of WCW, Patrick’s contract was picked up by Vince McMahon’s WWE in 2001. However, the move came at a cost as Patrick revealed that he had to accept a substantial reduction in pay.
“I took a tremendous pay cut, but really just by what you were guaranteed because, at the end of WCW, I had made my way up to being an employee,” Patrick explained. “I was also, it was called an agent back then, and I guess they call them producers now. But back then it was an agent, and I’d worked my way up to being a Turner employee at that point, so I had finally broken through and had a guarantee, you know, with 401k and all that kind of stuff. So when Vince came and bought it, none of that was offered.”
Patrick’s revelation sheds light on the financial challenges faced by many wrestlers and industry professionals during the transition between promotions. It highlights the disparity in job security and benefits between different organizations within the wrestling world.
This interview brings to light the sacrifices that individuals like Nick Patrick had to make to continue pursuing their passion for professional wrestling. It also raises questions about the treatment and compensation of talent in the industry.
During his time in WCW, Nick Patrick had established himself as a respected referee and agent. His journey from being a contract worker to a full-time employee with benefits exemplifies the dedication and hard work required to succeed in the wrestling business.
While WWE’s acquisition of WCW provided new opportunities for many wrestlers and staff, it also came with its own set of challenges. The pay cut experienced by Patrick serves as a reminder that not all transitions between promotions are seamless and financially rewarding.
Wrestling Inc, a reputable source in the wrestling community, provided the original report on Nick Patrick’s interview. You can find their coverage here.
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