Rey Mysterio’s salary is influenced by several factors, including his base contract with WWE, royalties from merchandise sales, performance bonuses, and possible extra earnings from outside projects. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of how he could make his money:
1. Base Salary
Rey Mysterio’s base salary is the guaranteed portion of his contract with WWE. Based on reports, he signed a multi-year contract with WWE in 2018, and his base salary is estimated to be in the range of $1.5 million to $2 million per year. This number can fluctuate based on the specifics of his contract renewal or any special agreements made by WWE.
2. Merchandise Sales
Rey Mysterio is one of the most popular wrestlers in WWE history, and merchandise plays a huge role in his earnings. His unique mask designs, t-shirts, action figures, and other products are a big hit with fans. WWE stars receive a royalty percentage from the sales of their merchandise, with some sources indicating that wrestlers earn 10–15% of the total profit from merchandise sales. Given his popularity, Mysterio’s earnings from merchandise sales could range from $500,000 to $1 million annually.
3. Pay-Per-View Bonuses
WWE stars often earn bonuses based on their participation in major pay-per-view (PPV) events like WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Royal Rumble. The more significant the event, the higher the bonus. Rey Mysterio, being a veteran and a key figure in WWE, could receive pay-per-view bonuses based on his involvement in major storylines. These bonuses can range from $50,000 to $100,000 per event, though the specific figures for Mysterio are not public.
4. Performance Bonuses
In addition to the PPV bonuses, WWE stars can also receive bonuses for their in-ring performances, particularly for standout matches. These bonuses may be tied to a wrestler’s popularity or position in the company, with top performers receiving a larger share. Given Mysterio’s iconic status and consistent involvement in high-profile matches, it’s possible that he could earn upwards of $500,000 a year from performance-related bonuses.
5. Outside Projects and Endorsements
In addition to WWE, Rey Mysterio may also earn money from endorsements, appearances, or side projects, such as guest roles in movies or TV shows, participation in commercials, and other ventures. These earnings are typically more variable but could add an additional $100,000 to $500,000 or more to his annual income.
6. Special Appearances
Rey Mysterio, given his legendary status, could also earn money from making appearances at non-WWE events, conventions, and fan meet-and-greets. Some wrestlers make lucrative sums from these special appearances, although the exact numbers for Mysterio aren’t disclosed. This could add an additional $100,000 to $300,000 depending on the frequency and nature of these appearances.
7. Total Estimated Income
Taking all of the above into account, Rey Mysterio’s total annual income is estimated to range from $3 million to $5 million. This includes his salary, royalties from merchandise, pay-per-view bonuses, performance bonuses, and other revenue streams.
In short, Mysterio’s earnings come from a combination of guaranteed salary, incentives for appearances and performances, merchandising, and outside projects, making him one of the higher-paid wrestlers in WWE.