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WWE, the global leader in professional wrestling entertainment, continues to dominate the industry with its roster of iconic superstars. Over the years, the company has produced legendary performers who have captivated audiences worldwide. In 2024, the top-earning WWE stars remain a testament to the company's enduring popularity and financial success.Brock Lesnar reigns supreme as the highest-paid WWE wrestler, earning an astonishing $12 million per year. His exceptional athleticism and unparalleled dominance have made him a fan favorite and a formidable force in the ring. Lesnar's earnings extend beyond his base salary, as he also receives a substantial pay-per-view fee and a share of merchandise sales.Roman Reigns, the current Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, is another top earner, pocketing $5 million annually. His charismatic persona and impressive in-ring skills have propelled him to the forefront of the company. Reigns' star power has also translated into lucrative endorsement deals and other revenue streams.Randy Orton, a veteran of the WWE, earns $4.5 million per year. His longevity and consistent performances have made him one of the most respected and decorated wrestlers in the industry. Orton's signature moves, such as the RKO, have become synonymous with WWE.Triple H, the former WWE Executive Vice President, remains a top earner despite his retirement from in-ring competition. His $3.6 million annual salary reflects his contributions to the company as a performer, executive, and shareholder. Triple H's influence and business acumen have played a significant role in WWE's success.AJ Styles, a former WWE Champion, earns $3.5 million per year. His high-flying style and innovative offense have made him a fan favorite. Styles' charisma and ability to connect with audiences have contributed to his status as one of the most popular wrestlers in the company.Other notable top earners include Becky Lynch ($3 million), Seth Rollins ($3 million), The Undertaker ($2.5 million), The Miz ($2.5 million), and Stephanie McMahon ($2.5 million). These superstars have all achieved significant success in WWE, both in the ring and beyond.Despite the recent departure of Brock Lesnar, WWE remains committed to providing its top stars with lucrative contracts. The company's financial strength and global reach ensure that its wrestlers continue to be among the highest-paid athletes in the world.

The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has issued a notice to wrestler Vinesh Phogat for whereabouts failure. The notice, served on Wednesday, seeks an explanation from Phogat within 14 days.As a member of NADA's Registered Testing Pool (RTP), Phogat is required to provide details of her availability for dope tests. If she fails to provide accurate information or is not present at the specified location and time, it is considered a whereabouts failure.According to the notice, Phogat was not available for a dope test on September 9 at her residence in Kharkhoda village, Sonepat. The NADA notice states, "You are hereby given a formal notice to notify you about apparent failure to comply with the whereabouts requirements of the ADR, and to invite you to make any comments before we come to a final decision on the matter."Phogat has the option to accept the failure or provide evidence that she was present at the specified location for approximately 60 minutes. It is important to note that a single whereabouts failure does not constitute an anti-doping rule violation. However, three whereabouts failures within a 12-month period can lead to charges against an athlete.Phogat's whereabouts failure comes at a time when she is actively involved in politics. She recently joined the Congress party and is contesting the upcoming Haryana Assembly election from Julana constituency.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Disqualification Sparks Political Feud with Yogeshwar DuttVinesh Phogat's disqualification from the Paris Olympic Games 2024 has ignited a heated debate in India, with fellow wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt criticizing her actions and calling for an apology.Phogat, who announced her retirement from wrestling after her disqualification, has since joined the Indian National Congress ahead of the upcoming Haryana elections. However, Dutt, who has also transitioned to politics, believes Phogat should have apologized for costing India a medal.In an interview with AajTak, Dutt expressed his disappointment with Phogat's behavior, both during the Olympic Games and the protests she participated in over the past year. He accused her of tarnishing India's image and creating a false narrative."She should have apologized to the entire nation for her mistakes," Dutt said. "Instead, she blamed a conspiracy and even dragged the Prime Minister into it. The disqualification was fair, and she should have accepted responsibility."Dutt also criticized Phogat's role in the protests, claiming that she misled people and created a negative atmosphere in the country."If I were in Vinesh's place, I would have apologized to the country," Dutt said. "She cost India a medal and then tried to justify her actions by spreading false information."Phogat has yet to respond to Dutt's comments, but her decision to join politics has raised questions about her motives. Some believe that she is using her platform to advance her political career, while others argue that she is genuinely committed to serving the people of Haryana.The feud between Phogat and Dutt highlights the growing divide within India's wrestling community. As the sport continues to gain popularity, it is likely that more wrestlers will enter the political arena, potentially leading to further clashes and controversies.

Former Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who suffered a heartbreaking disqualification at the Paris Olympics 2024, has embarked on a new chapter in her life by joining the Congress party and announcing her political debut.Phogat's decision to retire from wrestling after the Olympic setback has led her to seek a new path in politics. She has filed her nomination for the upcoming Haryana elections, contesting from the Julana Constituency in Jind.An affidavit submitted by Phogat during her nomination filing reveals insights into her financial status. She owns three cars: a Volvo XC 60 (valued at Rs 35 lakh), a Hyundai Creta (valued at Rs 12 lakh), and a Toyota Innova (valued at Rs 17 lakh). She is also repaying a loan related to one of her cars.Phogat's immovable property is valued at Rs 2 crore. She has Rs 1.95 lakh in hand and her Income Tax returns for the financial year 2023-24 show an income of Rs 13,85,000.Phogat's uncle, Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former wrestling coach, expressed his support for her political aspirations. He stated that his daughter, Sangeeta Phogat, will now carry forward his dream of an Olympic medal in wrestling, as he prepares her for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.Last Friday, Phogat and Tokyo Olympic bronze medalist Bajrang Punia (Sangeeta's husband) joined the Congress party. Phogat will make her electoral debut from Julana in Jind district.Mahavir Phogat emphasized that Sangeeta will now focus on the 2028 Olympics, as Vinesh's political career has opened up a new opportunity for her. He also mentioned that Babita Phogat's knee injuries have hindered her return to the mat.

Wrestler Bajrang Punia Challenges NADA Suspension in Delhi High CourtWrestler Bajrang Punia has filed a petition in the Delhi High Court challenging his suspension by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). The suspension stems from Punia's refusal to provide a urine sample for a dope test during selection trials in March.Punia's counsel argued that the suspension is arbitrary and violates his fundamental rights. He claimed that NADA failed to follow proper testing protocols and that Punia had legitimate reasons for refusing the test. The counsel also highlighted the upcoming Senior World Wrestling Championships in Albania and urged the court to grant an interim relief to allow Punia to participate.NADA's counsel defended the suspension, stating that a disciplinary panel is investigating the matter and that Punia is not being targeted. The counsel emphasized that athletes cannot refuse dope tests and that NADA is committed to ensuring fair play.The court questioned Punia on his refusal to submit a sample, highlighting the importance of testing for the integrity of the sport. However, the court also acknowledged Punia's concerns and directed NADA to file a response to the petition.Punia's suspension has sparked controversy, with many questioning the timing and fairness of the decision. The wrestler has been a vocal critic of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and has alleged sexual harassment by its former chief.The outcome of the court case will have significant implications for Punia's career and the future of anti-doping in Indian sports.

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has made startling revelations about her meeting with PT Usha, the president of the Indian Olympics Association (IOA), following her heartbreaking disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024 due to a failed weigh-in.Phogat, who was admitted to a poly-clinic in the Olympics village after falling ill, claims that PT Usha's visit and subsequent social media post were insincere and exploitative. She alleges that Usha did not offer any meaningful support during her time of distress."I don't know what support I got there," Phogat said in an interview with a local news channel. "PT Usha madam visited me at the hospital. One photo was clicked... Like you said, in politics a lot happens behind closed doors. Similarly, politics happened there (in Paris) as well. That's why I was heartbroken."Phogat, who recently joined the Indian National Congress, expressed her disappointment with Usha's decision to share the photo on social media, claiming that it was a mere publicity stunt."You are on a hospital bed, where you don't know what's happening in life outside, you are going through one of the worst phases of your life. At that place, just to show everyone you are standing with me, aap bina bataye photo kheench rahe ho, fir social media pe daal ke bol rahe ho hum saath mein khade hain (clicked a photo without telling me and then putting it on social media to say you are standing with me)," Phogat said."That's not how you show support (pretending to). What was it more than (posturing)!"Phogat's allegations have raised questions about the integrity and transparency of the IOA and its leadership. Her claims have also sparked a debate about the treatment of athletes in India, particularly those who face setbacks or controversies.

Former Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has resigned from her position as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) with the Indian Railways, citing personal reasons. The resignation comes amid speculation that she may join the Congress party and contest the upcoming Haryana assembly elections.Phogat, 30, is a renowned wrestler who has won numerous medals at the international level, including a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and a bronze medal at the 2019 World Championships. She was disqualified from the 50kg gold medal match at the Paris Olympics for being overweight by 100 grams, a decision that she appealed against but was rejected by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.In her resignation letter, Phogat expressed her gratitude to the Indian Railways for the opportunity to serve the nation. She stated that she was unable to perform her duties as OSD due to family circumstances and personal reasons. She requested that her resignation be accepted with immediate effect and that one month's salary be deposited in lieu of her one month's notice period.Phogat's resignation has sparked speculation that she may join the Congress party and contest the Haryana assembly elections next month. She met with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi earlier this week, leading to widespread rumors of her political ambitions.If Phogat does join the Congress party, it would be a significant boost for the party's campaign in Haryana. She is a popular figure in the state and has a strong following among the youth. Her decision to enter politics could also inspire other athletes to consider a career in public service.

Sangram Singh, India's pioneering male wrestler and former ambassador of the Wrestling Federation of India, is embarking on a new chapter in his illustrious career. On September 21, he will step into the octagon at the Gama International Fighting Championship in Tbilisi, Georgia, to face Ali Raza Nasir of Pakistan.This momentous occasion marks Singh's transition from wrestling to mixed martial arts (MMA), a testament to his unwavering dedication to the sport. Singh envisions a future where Indian athletes excel on the global MMA stage and have ample opportunities to develop their careers."My journey from wrestling to MMA isn't just for me," Singh said. "I hope to build the sport in India and pave the way for our young fighters to compete internationally. I want to inspire them to believe that with hard work and determination, they too can achieve greatness."Singh's foray into MMA is not merely a personal pursuit but also a strategic move to elevate the sport in India. He believes that MMA has the potential to revolutionize combat sports, including boxing and wrestling."As a sportsman, it's essential to stay abreast of the latest trends in the sport," Singh explained. "MMA is gaining immense popularity worldwide, and I see it having a significant impact on the entire combat sports landscape."Singh's impressive wrestling credentials have earned him accolades both nationally and internationally. His transition to MMA is expected to further enhance the stature of Indian athletes in the global combat sports community.Growing up, Singh was inspired by his brother's wrestling prowess. Despite being diagnosed with arthritis, he overcame adversity to become a world-renowned wrestler. In 2012, he was crowned the World's Best Professional Wrestler, and he also triumphed in the 2015 and 2016 Commonwealth Heavyweight Championships.Throughout his career, Singh has been a role model and motivator for countless young people. His success in wrestling and his subsequent transition to MMA demonstrate his unwavering determination and his commitment to promoting combat sports in India.

Sakshi Malik, one of India's most celebrated women wrestlers, is set to release her highly anticipated memoir, "Witness," in October. Co-authored by Jonathan Selvaraj and published by Juggernaut Books, the book promises an "honest account" of Malik's life, both on and off the mat.From her humble beginnings in Rohtak to her historic bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, Malik's memoir chronicles her journey with raw honesty. She delves into the challenges she faced as a woman wrestler in India, including body image issues, financial struggles, and the complexities of dating.Malik also sheds light on the inner workings of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), revealing the recent public battle that played out on the streets of New Delhi. Her insights into the world of women's wrestling in India are both fascinating and eye-opening."It's a really honest account of my life - the highs, lows, and everything in between," Malik says of her literary venture. "I gave this book my all and I hope readers like it."Chiki Sarkar, publisher of Juggernaut Books, describes "Witness" as "one of the great memoirs of our time." She adds, "Sakshi has written a no-holds barred book that not only talks about her struggles with the WFI but also brings vividly alive her childhood, the world of wrestling, and what it takes to be an Olympic medalist."Malik's memoir is a testament to her resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of sports, women's empowerment, and the human journey.