Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods Reportedly Rejected WWE Pay Cut — But Was It Really 50%?

Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods reportedly walked away from WWE after declining reduced contract terms, bringing their celebrated run as The New Day to an unexpected end.

However, one important detail has become blurred as the story has spread online: Although reports say Kingston and Woods were offered less money, the widely repeated 50% figure has not been confirmed as the specific cut offered to them.

What the Reports Actually Say

Kingston and Woods reportedly signed five-year WWE contracts in 2025. Approximately one year into those agreements, WWE approached them about restructuring the remaining terms for reduced compensation.

The proposed arrangement reportedly included winding down their in-ring schedules while moving toward promotional, digital or ambassador-style roles. Both performers declined the new terms, leading to what was described as a mutual departure from the company.

Fightful reported that several WWE performers had been approached about accepting lower salaries. Additional reporting indicated that fewer than six wrestlers were involved in those discussions.

Kingston and Woods were among those reportedly offered reduced terms, but neither the exact amount nor percentage offered to The New Day members has been publicly established.

Where the 50% Claim Came From

The 50% figure originated from reporting about a separate, unidentified WWE performer.

PWInsider’s Mike Johnson reported that one “pretty majorly pushed” talent was asked to accept a 50% reduction and allegedly agreed to the deal. That wrestler’s identity was not disclosed.

WrestleZone’s summary of Wrestling Observer reporting also separated that unnamed performer from the negotiations involving Kingston and Woods.

The most accurate description is therefore that Kingston and Woods reportedly rejected significant pay reductions, while an unnamed WWE talent was reportedly offered—and accepted—a 50% cut.

Kingston Addresses Knowing His Worth

Neither Kingston nor Woods publicly revealed the financial details of their negotiations. However, Kingston appeared to address the situation’s broader message when he wrote:

“Do not ever compromise or accept less than your due when it comes to your worth.”

The statement did not confirm a percentage, but it reflected the position described in reports surrounding the team’s departure.

For performers with the experience, merchandise history and fan recognition of The New Day, accepting substantially reduced compensation would have represented more than a simple contract adjustment. It could also have changed how WWE valued their future contributions.

The End of a Historic WWE Run

The departure was especially surprising because Kingston and Woods had been central figures in WWE for more than a decade.

Alongside Big E, they transformed The New Day from a struggling concept into one of WWE’s most successful factions. The group captured numerous tag-team championships, produced major merchandise sales and became one of the company’s most recognizable acts.

Kingston’s 2019 WWE Championship victory at WrestleMania 35 also became one of the defining moments of the modern era.

Their value extended beyond televised matches. Both performers represented WWE through community appearances, media interviews, gaming content and international promotional events. Woods was particularly influential in developing WWE’s presence in gaming and digital entertainment.

That history explains why the reported request for reduced terms generated such a strong response from fans and other wrestlers.

AJ Styles recently questioned WWE’s decision to part ways with The New Day and the Motor City Machine Guns, praising their experience and suggesting the company may eventually regret losing them. His comments renewed discussion about the departures.

What Comes Next?

Kingston and Woods are reportedly free agents following the expiration of their post-WWE restrictions.

Both men have taken steps to protect names associated with their identities outside WWE. Kingston filed trademark applications related to Kofi Sarkodie-Mensah and KSM, while Woods has continued using the Austin Creed name.

They have also been announced for an upcoming Chris Jericho cruise appearance. Rumors connecting them with AEW have naturally followed, but no signing has been officially confirmed.

Wherever they appear next, the duo will arrive with an established audience, extensive television experience and the freedom to present themselves beyond WWE’s creative system.

Their next move could involve another major wrestling company, independent appearances, digital content or a combination of all three.

The Bigger Picture

The reported negotiations involving Kingston and Woods illustrate how quickly a wrestler’s position can change under WWE’s current business structure.

A long-term contract does not necessarily guarantee that the company will maintain the same creative or financial commitment throughout the agreement. WWE can propose revised terms, but experienced performers also have the option to refuse if they believe the offer does not reflect their market value.

Kingston and Woods appear to have made that choice.

The precise size of their proposed reductions remains unknown. What has been consistently reported is that WWE wanted them to continue for less money—and they decided their next chapter should happen elsewhere.

Do you believe Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods were right to reject WWE’s offer? Let us know, and follow Grapple News for updates on where The New Day members appear next.