As time passes, the prospect of Rob Gronkowski retiring from the NFL and joinining WWE seemingly becomes more and more real.
The New England Patriots tight end hinted at retirement immediately after his team’s crushing defeat in Super Bowl LII, and subsequent reports have fueled speculation that Gronkowski soon could ditch life on the gridiron for one inside the ring.
At the end of the day, however, Gronk might have to make the first move — not WWE — according to Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer.
“I think that is more of a Gronkowski is going to make the call himself and I don’t think it is WWE is trying to — they are not going to outbid him,” Meltzer said during an appearance on WEEI’s “Dale & Holley with Keefe” on Wednesday. “They are not going to spend $10 million a year on him. But, if he’s done with football, are they interested in him? Yeah, it is pretty clear they are.”
So, what kind of money could Gronkowski make in WWE?
Meltzer previously reported WWE would be willing to offer Gronk a contract similar to the one it offered Ronda Rousey. Still, there are many variables at play.
“It’s really hard to say because I can’t imagine him going in and doing 200 dates a year,” Meltzer said. “James Laurinaitis is a perfect example. He comes from a wrestling family. His uncle is a former executive at WWE. His father was a great wrestler. He had an open door of whenever his football career was over, and when his football career was over he was too beat up. He didn’t want to do it.
” … I could imagine (Gronkowski) could get a part-time job in wresting if he clicks and make a couple of million, maybe. It’s hard to say. So many of their contracts are incentive-based and things like that. I would say a couple of million probably.”
Considering how much money Gronk makes in endorsements, it’s tough to fathom a base salary being the sticking point in whether he continues playing football or not. Ultimately, the 28-year-old’s decision might come down to competitive drive versus personal wellness.
Either way, Patriots fans and wrestling fans alike are desperate for answers.
