WWE is set to begin cracking down on talent using third party services to interact with fans.
First reported by Wrestling Inc. and confirmed by multiple other sources, Vince McMahon held a phone call with talent this past Sunday informing them that, as part of the “reinvention of the product,” they can no longer “engage with outside third parties.”
Many superstars operate personal Twitch channels, YouTube channels, and Cameo pages. It is reportedly unclear to talent what WWE’s definition of “third parties” is.
During the call, it was also stated to talent that WWE does not just own their character names, but their real names as well. As WWE talent are independent contractors, there is a question of legality behind that announcement.
A follow-up letter was sent to talent on Thursday by Vince McMahon. McMahon wrote that they have 30 days to terminate their activities on third party services or face fines, suspension, or termination:
“Some of you are engaged with outside third parties using your name and likeness in ways that are detrimental to our company. It is imperative that these activities be terminated within the next 30 days (by Friday October 2). Continued violations will result in fines, suspension, or termination at WWE’s discretion.”
McMahon ended the letter stating that these actions are necessary as part of the company’s rebuilding process to “enter the next phase of growth at WWE.”
Wrestleview reached out to WWE for comment, but the request was not immediately returned. We will provide an update once more becomes available.