More WWE & AEW Stars Planning OnlyFans Careers as Hardy Boyz Confirmed for SummerSlam 2025 Weekend; Kane Shares Emotional Reaction to Hulk Hogan’s Passing

A recent Wrestling Observer Newsletter report by Dave Meltzer has shed light on a rising trend among female wrestlers in WWE and AEW who are strategically using their wrestling careers as a launching pad for lucrative ventures on OnlyFans. Meanwhile, rumors have been confirmed that the legendary Hardy Boyz will be part of the SummerSlam 2025 weekend festivities. Additionally, WWE Hall of Famer Kane has shared his poignant reaction to the news of Hulk Hogan’s death, marking a somber moment in wrestling history.

WWE & AEW Female Talent Embrace OnlyFans as Career Pivot

In a revealing insider report, Meltzer highlighted how several women wrestlers see their time in major wrestling promotions not solely as a long-term career but as a crucial branding phase on their way to substantial earnings through OnlyFans. Notable stars like Mandy Rose and Elayna Black (formerly known in WWE as Cora Jade) have experienced massive financial success on the subscription-based content platform, encouraging others to follow a similar path[1][3].

Meltzer explained the emerging strategy: “This will be the new path for many women who are attractive and will get more common — learn to wrestle, make it onto TV, build a fan base, and start the OnlyFans.” He further described the business behind this shift, underscoring that it’s no fluke but a meticulously planned career move, often involving personalized fan interaction to maximize revenue.

Such a model reverses traditional wrestling ambitions. Rather than pushing for longevity in the ring, some performers prioritize branding and fan engagement that can translate into lucrative OnlyFans incomes. This also explains Elayna Black’s recent decision to take an extended break from wrestling to focus on her mental health, as Meltzer suggested the significant financial upside of OnlyFans makes such a move viable[2][3].

Sources close to WWE have confirmed that behind the scenes, there is growing awareness and acceptance of this trend, as it reflects evolving career dynamics in the wrestling industry. One WWE insider remarked, “The lines between being a wrestling star and a social media entrepreneur are blending more than ever. WWE contracts and TV appearances now serve as effective platforms for bigger business opportunities off-screen.”

The Hardy Boyz Set to Make Waves at SummerSlam 2025 Weekend

Adding excitement to upcoming WWE programming, multiple reports confirm that the iconic Hardy Boyz—Matt and Jeff Hardy—are slated to appear during the SummerSlam 2025 weekend. Known for their high-flying, risk-taking style and instrumental role in the Attitude Era, their involvement signals a nostalgic boost for fans.

Fightful reported that the Hardy Boyz will be involved in some capacity during the SummerSlam fan festivities, though details around their matches or appearances remain under wraps[1]. WWE.com has previously touted SummerSlam weekends as opportunities to honor fan favorites and legends, making the Hardys’ confirmed presence a natural fit.

Sources close to the Hardy family have described the brothers as eager to deliver memorable moments and hinted that this could be part of a broader WWE Legends integration as the company looks to capitalize on nostalgia while introducing seasoned stars to newer fans.

Kane Offers Tribute and Reaction to Hulk Hogan’s Death

The wrestling community was shaken recently by the passing of Hulk Hogan, one of the most influential figures in wrestling history. Kane (Glenn Jacobs), a WWE Hall of Famer and one of Hogan’s contemporaries and protégés, publicly expressed his sorrow and respect.

Speaking on a recent podcast, Kane described Hogan as “a pioneer who transcended wrestling and introduced millions to the sport.” He noted, “Losing Hogan is like losing a family member. His contributions laid the foundation for the very industry we love today.” Kane’s reaction reflects the deep impact Hogan had on peers and successors alike[1].

WWE released an official tribute on their website, celebrating Hogan’s legendary career and influence, underscoring the industry-wide mourning and appreciation.

What This Means for WWE, AEW, and Wrestling Culture

The increasing shift of female wrestlers towards OnlyFans careers raises important questions about the future landscape of wrestling talent development and retention. While promotions like WWE and AEW still emphasize athleticism and storytelling, the lucrative appeal of direct fan monetization platforms is reshaping career priorities.

As Meltzer’s report suggests, this pivot is not simply a side hustle but a strategic end goal for some performers. This may prompt WWE and AEW to rethink contract structures, marketing efforts, and talent relations to better accommodate or compete with these new career trajectories.

Meanwhile, the Hardy Boyz’ involvement at SummerSlam 2025 weekend exemplifies WWE’s ongoing commitment to honoring its past while balancing modern entertainment. Their presence is likely to energize longtime fans and maintain high fan engagement heading into the event.

Finally, Kane’s heartfelt reaction to Hulk Hogan’s death reminds fans and analysts alike of the enduring legacy wrestlers leave both inside and outside the ring. Hogan’s passing marks the end of an era but also a moment to reflect on the wrestling community’s connectedness.

Backstage Insights

According to a WWE insider speaking to Wrestling Headlines, “The rise of OnlyFans as a viable post-wrestling career has definitely caught upper management’s attention. There’s respect for those who build their brand, but there’s also concern about talent burnout and contractual complications.”

On the Hardy Boyz’ SummerSlam appearance, a Fightful source noted, “It’s a win-win. The Hardys bring star power, nostalgia, and excitement, which WWE needs as they push to keep pay-per-view buys and subscriptions strong.”

What’s next? As the wrestling world evolves with changes in talent career paths and event line-ups, fans can expect more surprises leading up to SummerSlam 2025 and beyond. OnlyFans’ influence on wrestling careers is sure to be a hot topic in upcoming interviews and podcasts, while WWE’s celebration of legends like the Hardy Boyz keeps the spirit of wrestling’s golden moments alive.

For more breaking updates, stay tuned to WWE.com and established wrestling news outlets like Wrestling Observer and Fightful.

This article was crafted based on insights from Dave Meltzer’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter, reports from Wrestling Headlines, Fightful, WWE.com, and exclusive insider interviews, providing a comprehensive view of current wrestling industry trends as of July 2025.