Jasmin St. Claire’s original run with TNA did not end because of creative issues or backstage drama. It came down to money, airfare and her refusal to pay out of pocket just to appear for the company.
During a conversation with Wrestling Pedigree, St. Claire looked back on her time working during TNA’s early years. She said she enjoyed the experience, especially the segments written by Vince Russo and her work alongside names such as Ken Shamrock and Ryan Shamrock.
St. Claire explained that she was living in Los Angeles at the time and initially covered the cost of flying herself to the shows. The problem came when TNA wanted her back but would not cover her travel or pay her for the appearance.
“At the time, I lived in Los Angeles, and it was like a $300 airline ticket, which I thought was fine. So, I covered my airfare for the first one, the first two ones, and then they wanted to bring me back. They were like, ‘Yeah, but we can’t cover your airfare. We’re not going to fly you out.’”
That left St. Claire with a simple question: If the company was not paying for her flight, would it at least pay her for working the show? She said that option was also taken off the table.
“So, okay, if you’re not going to fly me out, are you going to pay me? And that was off the table. So, at that point, I had a choice to make.”
St. Claire decided the deal no longer made sense. She was not willing to work for free while also spending her own money to travel across the country. She also pointed out that there is only so long someone can justify paying their own way for exposure, especially when the company has financial backing.
“I just said no because I would never go somewhere and work for free and then pay airfare. I just wouldn’t.”
“I went back because I thought the exposure was great, but there’s only so far you’re going to pay your own airfare for exposure. A company like that, with that kind of financing, couldn’t afford a $300 ticket? Really? So, yeah, that wasn’t for me.”
Despite how things ended, St. Claire made it clear that she does not hold a grudge against TNA. In fact, she would be open to working for the company again under its current leadership.
“Would I work for them again with the new TNA leadership? Absolutely. I think it’s great what they’re doing, and I’m glad Candice Michelle is there as well.”
St. Claire’s original TNA run may have ended over a $300 plane ticket, but she has not completely closed the door. With new leadership in place, she sounds willing to listen if the company ever comes calling again.
Would you like to see Jasmin St. Claire return to TNA under its current leadership? Leave your feedback in the comments.
