Reportedly, the highest paid AEW wrestler in 2026 is Jon Moxley, who receives roughly $6 million annually.
AEW salaries overall are becoming more competitive with WWE salaries, and the gap is narrower than it used to be for top names. Figures remain estimates, but the richest AEW wrestlers now sit in a far more premium bracket than the average roster member.
Before we get stuck into the list of biggest earners in AEW, readers can find sports betting markets - including the biggest wrestling events - at 888sport.
Top 8 highest paid AEW wrestlers
Salary information is not publicly available, so the figures below are estimates drawn from reporting from trusted outlets like Times of India, interviews, and industry chatter.
That is the reality of following the highest paid AEW wrestlers: the numbers are reported, not confirmed, and they can shift depending on guarantees, merchandising, and booking value.
Jon Moxley - $6 million
Jon Moxley is widely viewed as AEW's top earner, with his value tied to main-event status, consistency, and heavy fan recognition. He sets the pace for the highest paid AEW wrestlers in 2026 at $6 million annually, per the Times of India.
Will Ospreay - $5.5 million
Will Ospreay's AEW contract is believed to place him near the very top of the pay scale, reflecting his breakout status and elite in-ring reputation. His deal shows how quickly AEW has moved to lock in headline talent.
Mercedes Moné - $5 million
Mercedes Moné is the top female name on the list, and the Mercedes Moné salary estimate puts her among AEW's biggest earners overall. Her star power, crossover appeal, and championship-level profile make her one of the richest AEW wrestlers.
Chris Jericho - $5 million
Chris Jericho remains a benchmark for value in AEW because of his longevity, name recognition, and reliable draw. His estimate has stayed in the same premium tier as the company continues to lean on his profile.
Kazuchika Okada - $4.5 million
Kazuchika Okada's move to AEW was always going to come with a major number attached, and his estimated pay reflects that. He is one of the few signings who can instantly reshape the top end of the roster.
Kenny Omega - $3 million
Kenny Omega continues to sit comfortably among the highest paid AEW wrestlers because of his status as a founding-level attraction and long-term anchor. His earning power comes from both legacy and star quality.
MJF - $3 million
MJF's estimated salary mirrors his importance as a long-term centerpiece. His position among AEW salaries underlines how the company pays for homegrown stars who can carry major storylines.
Adam Cole - $2 million
Adam Cole rounds out the list as a high-value performer with strong fan connection and consistent television importance.
Even at this level, the AEW wrestler salary tier is comfortably above what many viewers expect. This is over the reported WWE salary and the net worth Drew McIntyre is estimated to have.
How much do AEW wrestlers make on average
The average AEW roster salary is reportedly around $300,000, although some wrestlers and analysts argue the real value is stronger once guarantees are factored in.
Travel and accommodation are covered within the perks, which changes the picture when compared with WWE's pay model and makes ‘how much do AEW wrestlers make’ a more nuanced question.
How AEW salaries compare to WWE
WWE's main roster minimum is commonly reported at $250,000, with top stars said to earn between $2 million and $8.5 million a year.
That puts AEW salaries in familiar territory at the top, even if the WWE’s highest paid wrestlers get more and the company still has a deeper spread of marquee earners.
Find out more about sporting net worth figures and salaries here.
FAQ
Who is the highest paid AEW wrestler?
Jon Moxley is the highest paid AEW wrestler in this estimated ranking, with a figure of roughly $6 million per year.
How much do AEW wrestlers make on average?
The average AEW wrestler salary is reportedly about $300,000, though total value can look better once travel, accommodation, and guarantees are included.
Who is the highest paid woman in AEW?
Mercedes Moné is the highest paid woman in AEW in this estimate, with a reported annual figure of about $5 million.
Do AEW wrestlers earn more than WWE wrestlers?
At the top end, AEW and WWE can overlap closely, but WWE still has the higher reported ceiling overall. The two systems are different, so the answer depends on whether you are comparing average pay or headline deals.
