Rikishi Defends Logan Paul After Criticism Over Rumored $5 Million Salary

Logan Paul’s quick rise in professional wrestling, shown by his time as the United States Champion, surprised many fans. Kevin Nash recently criticized Paul, and Paul responded by saying Nash was bitter and jealous. Now, Rikishi has come to Paul’s defense over rumors about his $5 million salary.

Kevin Nash openly criticized Logan Paul, noting that Paul admitted on a podcast he didn’t know what the wrestling term “shoot” meant. Nash argued that Paul isn’t truly part of the wrestling world because he doesn’t travel or put in the time to fully learn the business. Nash’s main concern is that celebrities like Paul are paid significantly more than full-time wrestlers, even though they spend much less time in the ring, claiming that Paul makes $5 million.

Another WWE Hall of Famer, Rikishi, has stepped in to defend Logan Paul amid the backlash over his reported $5 million deal with WWE. While speaking during his Off The Top podcast, Rikishi praised Paul for securing such a lucrative contract, arguing that frustration should be aimed at the industry, not the wrestler. He emphasized that Paul’s ability to negotiate a deal like that is part of the business, and those upset should recognize that it’s the system that allows these circumstances.

Rikishi pointed out that Paul, as a part-time performer, managed to leverage his brand and presence to secure a major paycheck. He noted that many full-time wrestlers don’t disclose their earnings and suggested that Paul’s focus on getting paid, rather than fitting in as “one of the boys,” is a smart move. Rikishi pointed out Paul’s hustle, athleticism, and ability to market himself, applauding his success despite not being a full-time wrestler.

Ultimately, Rikishi urged others to focus on the business side of wrestling and appreciate Paul’s achievements, suggesting that his success is a result of smart negotiations and branding. He also expressed hope that Kevin Nash and Logan Paul could move past their differences.

“I’m saying hate the game, don’t hate the player. If he got five mil, it’s called negotiations. That means whatever negotiations, because last I knew, all I see is PRIME around that ring. It’s called negotiations. Hate the game, not the player. Big up to [Logan] Paul if that’s what he did.

If you’re making that type of money, I don’t give a damn about being one of the boys then. You got your bag. If you’re one of the boys, is your bag gonna be bigger? Because I guarantee not a damn one of the boys gives a damn about your bag that you’re making. They ain’t gonna tell you what they’re making. So hey, hate the game, not the player because that boy [Logan] Paul is a hustler, he’s one hell of an athlete, and if he’s not a full-time wrestler, fuck yeah. Good for him. Don’t hate the player, hate the game, man. That’s what it is. The bag is the bag. Ain’t that what we all in it for?

Obviously, [Logan] had to be a huge fan of WWE. Anybody that’s a fan of wrestling, you dream to get an opportunity to get into WWE. If you’re not, then why are you in this business? But to be able to come in and have access, opportunity, exposure and get his brand out there, half-time, not a full-time, and making five million dollars, come on, man. Somebody got a good negotiation team. Amen to that. Come on, now. Kevin Nash, Logan Paul, y’all make up. Time is too short.”

WWE has also been urged to book a feud between Kevin Nash and Logan Paul on Friday Night SmackDown. On the other hand, WWE is planning a potential match between John Cena and Logan Paul, so we’ll have to see if that will turn to fruition next year.

What’s your view on what Rikishi had to say about Logan Paul’s rumored salary? Do you feel Logan Paul deserves all the money he receives from WWE? Let us know in the comments section below!