WWE Reportedly Pays Dwayne Johnson $5 Million Yearly Salary after John Cena “Tore” His Abs and Tendons in Wrestling Match
Dwayne Johnson, a successful businessman, incredible actor, WWE legend, and loving family man, is a multifaceted individual who has achieved remarkable success in various aspects of his life. Known for his belief in the value of hard work, Johnson has demonstrated through his own actions that dedication and perseverance can lead to great accomplishments. With a net worth of $800 million, he has proven his ability to thrive in both the entertainment industry and the business world.
While Johnson is renowned for portraying dramatic characters in movies, his wrestling career in the WWE was not devoid of drama either. One of the most memorable feuds in WWE history was between Johnson and fellow wrestler-turned-actor John Cena. The rivalry between the two was etched in the minds of WWE fans, and several years after it began, they were ready for another showdown in the ring. However, this match had unintended consequences for Johnson, resulting in both physical and financial challenges.
After Cena called out Johnson for leaving WWE behind to pursue a career in Hollywood, Johnson made a special appearance at WrestleMania XXVIII and WrestleMania 29, where the two wrestlers headlined the events. Although Johnson emerged victorious in their first encounter at WrestleMania XXVIII, Cena sought revenge at WrestleMania 29 and emerged as the winner. Unfortunately, the intense match took a toll on Johnson’s body, leading to torn tendons and hernia tears.
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Johnson candidly discussed the aftermath of the fight, revealing the extent of his injuries. He explained that he tore his abductor tendon and rectus tendon completely off his pelvis during the match. Additionally, he discovered that he had three hernia tears. Johnson humorously described the subsequent swelling and pain he experienced, particularly in the sensitive area, as “fun” but challenging to endure.
The injuries from the match continue to affect Johnson. As a result of the surgeries required to address his torn tendons and hernias, his abdominal muscles no longer resemble the typical six-pack or eight-pack abs. In a Wired Autocomplete Interview, Johnson amusingly remarked that he now has a “five-and-a-half pack, sometimes a four-and-a-half pack” instead.
Aside from the physical toll, Johnson’s injuries also had financial repercussions. In an interview with The Hannibal TV, Johnson’s father, Rocky Johnson, revealed that the health issues resulting from his match with Cena caused a significant financial loss. The delay in filming one of Johnson’s films due to his health condition cost him hundreds of thousands of dollars per day.
During this period, Johnson’s WWE salary helped offset the financial setback. According to reports, his 2013 contract with WWE entitled him to an annual sum of $5 million. Although Johnson last competed in a match at WrestleMania 32 in 2016, there is a possibility that his annual income could be increased if he chooses to return to his wrestling roots. However, it is unlikely that he would opt for a wrestling comeback, as he previously vowed to prioritize family time and avoid taking on commitments that would reduce the time spent with his loved ones.