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Mike Kyota's extensive career offers a vivid picture of the evolution of referee compensation. Unlike wrestlers who earn fees per match, royalties from merchandise, or international appearances, referees historically did not benefit from such revenue streams. Kyota emphasizes that during his 33-year tenure, he did not receive royalties for his likeness or from video games. “We didn’t get royalties at all,” he states, contrasting his experience with that of the wrestlers.