10 Shocking Controversies In Alberto Del Rio’s WWE Career-9

9. His Fat Contract

Alberto Del Rio’s hefty contract was a source of contention for some people. Was he really worth all that much? He was steadily booked as a main eventer, but you’d hardly ever say he was primarily responsible for any key draws. It was always his opponent who pulled the money in, be it CM Punk or John Cena. Sure, Del Rio was important to the vital hispanic audience numbers, but he was hardly the second coming of Rey Mysterio.
Despite his upper midcard status, Del Rio was paid one of the best WWE contracts of the recent era. He was on a $675,000 downside and constantly got booked in bonus earning positions. That allowed him to pocket upwards of a million a year. WWE also granted him first class travel, a perk that was traditionally reserved for the WWE Champion. Even now, the majority of WWE superstars are having to pay for their own coach class tickets. Del Rio got special treatment.
A further controversy surrounded his contract in the last few months. It was due to expire this year and both parties appeared to be tense over the situation. WWE stopped booking Del Rio in major positions. On his part there were rumours of retirement or a jump to AAA.
The firing has now killed the contract expiry speculation. Ultimately the result is probably what both parties wanted.