Details of Joey Hendry's new contract in WWE are revealed

Hendry becomes one of the highest-paid talents in NXT thanks to a deal as a main roster star

Joe Hendry earns main roster salary despite working in NXT

Joe Hendry
Photo Credit: WWE.com
Sebastián Martínez
Sebastián Martínez
Published 11/19/2025

Joe Hendry's arrival to WWE was an open secret, but what wasn't known is that the former TNA wrestler has signed a deal befitting a main roster star. Far from a standard developmental contract, Hendry has been earning above the minimum salary of the main roster since day one.

His signing was formalized after his contract with TNA expired, something that had been expected for months. However, the news of his economic status came to light during a Q&A session on Fightful Select, where Sean Ross Sapp explained how Hendry is being treated within the company.

He's on a main roster level deal, above the minimum of the main roster. With his arrival, we might see movements like the rise of Ricky Saints or Ethan Page. Hendry would be the next in line in NXT with experience outside of WWE. And I think he'll also make occasional appearances, like Mr. Iguana style.

Main roster base salaries usually range between $300,000 and $400,000 annually, not including bonuses, merchandise sales, or premium event earnings. This level of investment for a talent primarily working in NXT clearly shows the huge potential WWE sees in Hendry.

The duration of his contract has not been made public, but everything points to a three-year deal. NXT contracts typically last from one to three years, while main roster contracts extend from three to five. Given that Hendry is earning above the minimum of the main roster, it's most likely that his signing falls within that three-year range, although nothing is confirmed.

For now, Hendry continues to compete regularly in NXT. However, his economic status already places him in a higher league. Some media outlets claimed he would be the last surprise entrant in John Cena's "Last Time is Now" tournament, a spot that was ultimately filled by Nic Nemeth.