Part 6/15:
Extra Compensation for Physical Risks
Physical risk is inherent in WWE refereeing, and Kyota confirms that referees did receive bonuses or extra pay when involved in bumps or spills. For instance, receiving a chair shot from Stone Cold Steve Austin led to a bonus—$2,500 from Jim Ross. However, such bonuses were inconsistent and depended heavily on the wrestler and the situation.
The physical toll was significant, with Kyota noting he often took head bumps and other impacts that left him with lingering injuries. These moments weren’t just on-screen theatrics; they came with real consequences, and officials sometimes suffered real pain without immediate or obvious compensation.