IATSE Calls Out AEW for Paying Substandard Wages During Philadelphia Residency

AEW is currently under fire after the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees called out the company for not paying proper wages as part of the Philadelphia residency.

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees took to their Facebook account and criticized AEW for not paying fair wages and benefits to its members during the company’s Philadelphia residency.

The IATSE said that Local 8 members were out this week to let the public know that AEW events in Philadelphia are failing to meet area standards by offering substandard pay and benefits.

The union warned that when employers undercut these standards, it puts at risk the wages, benefits, and job opportunities of all entertainment workers in the community. They also gave full support for Local 8 members, saying they stand in solidarity as those workers push to hold employers accountable and fight for the fair treatment and protections they deserve.

“This week, IATSE Local 8 members are out in force to inform the public that All Elite Wrestling (AEW) events in Philadelphia are failing to meet area standards by paying substandard wages and benefits.

When employers undercut these standards it threatens wages, benefits, and job opportunities for all entertainment workers in the community.

We stand in solidarity with our Local 8 kin as they hold employers accountable and fight to protect the fair standards that entertainment workers deserve! 💪”

This comes after AEW is setting up shop at Philadelphia’s historic 2300 Arena for a three-week residency, which will start on August 27 and end on September 11.

AEW is known for supporting its wrestlers, but this new issue shows there may be problems behind the scenes. Now that IATSE’s statement is spreading, AEW’s leaders will face pressure to explain themselves and take action on fair pay and benefits for the workers who run their shows, so we’ll have to see what they’ll say in the end.

What do you think — should AEW step up and meet IATSE’s wage and benefit standards, or is this being blown out of proportion? Sound off in the comments.