Part 4/15:
Kyota recounts approaching senior management, like Johnny Laurinaitis, about receiving a slice of the lucrative pie. Despite years of dedication, these efforts often went unfulfilled, illustrating the financial struggles referees faced compared to stars. Early paychecks for refereeing in the late 80s ranged from approximately $50,000 to $75,000 annually, with supplemental income from crew work—setting up rings, moving equipment, and other backstage duties.