Mariah May Didn’t Choose WWE for the Money—It Was Always the Goal

Mariah May might still be under AEW contract, but her next move is clear—and it’s not about chasing a bigger paycheck.

During the May 30 episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer confirmed that while May’s deal hasn’t expired just yet, her exit is imminent. He also shot down the idea that money played any part in her decision to shift toward WWE.

“She played it really smart. She got TV time, visibility, good matches, got over, and raised her stock. WWE was always the goal,” Meltzer said.

In fact, Meltzer believes AEW could’ve outbid WWE financially—if that’s what she wanted. “Honestly, I think if Tony Khan made her an offer today, it’d probably be more than what WWE’s offering — but it’s not about that for her. She’s not going where the money is highest; she’s going where she always wanted to be,” he explained.

Her AEW run, while short, gave her a platform—and she used it strategically. Meltzer added, “She wanted WWE from the beginning.”

Even with her contract still in effect, WWE is already preparing for her arrival. And when the deal finally ends, May’s next move will be about legacy, not salary.

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