The whole situation of WWE potentially shutting down third party projects of their contracted talent has just gotten so much worse. About a month ago, it was reported that WWE was going to crack down on their talent on third party platforms, things like Cameo & Twitch. They wanted them to stop using these platforms, and most thought this was in regards to them using their WWE names.
This prompted most to change the branding on these channels and services to their real names, but now the reports from WWE talent is that WWE is adding Twitch streaming into their contracts, making it a work obligation. Within the next thirty days, the talents Twitch accounts will be taken over by WWE.
WWE Are Officially Going Too Far
Over the past few years, WWE have made some downright vile choices. The dealings with Saudi Arabia, continued operations during COVID-19, and never offering their talent proper healthcare. WWE has stretched the boundaries of what they can ask of an independent contractor. Even Andrew Yang is starting to breath down their necks about this, and WWE doubles down.
They are taking something talent simply did to connect with their fans and have some fun. Sure, they make money from Twitch subscriptions, and that is enough for Vince McMahon to want to get his greedy hands on this for himself. Plus, this money isn’t always going to the talent themselves.
Dakota Kai Provides An Example As To Why This Is Horrible
Take NXT’s Dakota Kai for example, who would state on Twitter “Starting Twitch up again was purely for three reasons; to have fun as a gamer, communicate with y’all during a difficult year, and to give as much possible back to various charities.”
Now, Dakota Kai might have an obligation to stream added into her deal, and any money she makes will be filtered through WWE. She can still spend time and communicate with fans, but two of her reasons for doing this are now effectively gone. She is just one of many who were using this platform, others including Paige, Adam Cole, Xavier Woods, Mia Yim, AJ Styles, and so many more.
This is also likely against Twitch’s terms and conditions, but I’m sure WWE has thought of that angle and dealt with it. Do you think WWE has gone way too far this time? Let us know what you think in the comment section down below.
SUBSCRIBE NOW: Get TheOvertimer’s Hottest Stories, Breaking News and Special Features in your email, CLICK HERE!
