HeelByNature.com is reader-supported. When you click on links or make purchases through our site, we or our affiliated partners may earn a commission. Additionally, our site features Sponsored Content, which helps us maintain and operate the website.
NXT Talent Reportedly Exempt From Twitch Ban
A big story over the last several weeks has been WWE banning their talent from using third-party platforms, most notably Cameo and Twitch, with a number of top superstars like AJ Styles and Cesaro suspending their accounts until further notice. WWE Chairman Vince McMahon would alert talent that if the edict was not followed penalties would be enforced, which was the very reason former manager Zelina Vega was released from her contract last week.
According to the Wrestling Observer, this new policy currently has zero effect on talent in NXT. Reports are that no one from the yellow-and-black brand has been threatened or forced to suspend their activity, with a larger focus being placed on WWE’s main roster. Adam Cole continues to stream on his Twitch channel. However, it is noted that the “rules can change at any moment,” and it would not be unsurprising if NXT stars become included on the edict.
“They have not threatened anyone from NXT, so right now it’s not an issue for NXT. It easily would not shock me at all if it becomes one, but it’s only been told to the main roster. Right now, it’s fine, the rules can change at any moment”
Regarding Vega…her firing and statements on unionization caught the attention of the President of SAG-AFTRA, one of the most prestigious unions in existence worldwide. The two recently held a private meeting to discuss the representation of pro-wrestlers , with both parties touting about the conversation on Twitter. Former Democratic Presidential Nominee Andrew Yang has also publicly called out WWE and Vince McMahon for outdated labor practices. When McMahon’s email regarding the third-party ban leaked online, Yang wrote the following:
If I’m not the Secretary of Labor I’m pretty confident I’ll have his or her number to talk about the ridiculous classification of WWE wrestlers as independent contractors while controlling their name and likeness for years, even for something as benign as Cameo.
Come on Vince – you’ve already deprived the folks breaking their backs for you of healthcare, security, recovery time, retirement benefits and fair treatment re: licenses and royalties. At least let them make a living off their own names. Many of them need it.
I grew up a wrestling fan and it’s been sad to see so many of my childhood heroes pass away early. I’d feel better knowing that they and their families were being fairly treated – I look forward to doing what I can for the next generation of performers. I know how tough it is.
We’ll keep you updated on whether NXT talent becomes involved in the edict, as this is an ongoing story.
If you use any of the quotes in the article please credit Wrestling Observer Radio with a h/t to HeelByNature.com.