In the ever-evolving world of professional wrestling, new trends and surprising developments continue to shape the industry. Recently, reports have highlighted a significant shift among female WWE and AEW performers leveraging their wrestling careers as a springboard to lucrative ventures on OnlyFans. Meanwhile, legendary tag team The Hardy Boyz are officially set to appear during SummerSlam 2025 weekend, and former WWE superstar Kane has offered his heartfelt reaction to the recent passing of wrestling icon Hulk Hogan.

OnlyFans: The New Frontier for WWE & AEW Female Wrestlers

According to insider Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, an increasing number of female talents in both WWE and AEW are strategically using their television exposure to build a fan base, with the intention of launching OnlyFans accounts as a key component of their long-term financial future[1][2][3]. This represents a shift from traditional wrestling career paths, as performers now view wrestling stints less as lifelong careers and more as brand-building opportunities that enable substantial earnings in subscription-based content platforms.

Notable examples include Mandy Rose and Elayna Black (formerly known as Cora Jade), whose success on OnlyFans has reportedly been massive. Elayna Black recently announced an extended break from wrestling to focus on her mental health, with sources suggesting that her flourishing OnlyFans revenues have made stepping away from the grueling wrestling circuit a financially sound decision[2][3].

Meltzer emphasizes that this trend isn’t coincidental but highly calculated. He explains, “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. There are women already planning their exits and others who know it’s there.” A key marketing tactic contributing to these successes is personal interaction, often facilitated by teams behind the talents that engage subscribers privately, especially at higher payment tiers[2][3].

This evolving business model fundamentally changes the traditional wrestling narrative, with some performers prioritizing financial profitability on platforms like OnlyFans over long-term in-ring achievements. WWE and AEW contracts are increasingly viewed as temporary stages to establish name recognition and transition smoothly into independent digital entrepreneurship.

The Hardy Boyz Confirmed for SummerSlam 2025 Weekend

In another exciting development for wrestling fans, The Hardy Boyz—Jeff and Matt Hardy—are confirmed to be part of the SummerSlam 2025 weekend programming. This announcement has generated buzz on social platforms and backstage chatter across WWE circles, as the legendary tag team is expected to deliver high-impact performances that honor their storied legacy[1].

Sources close to WWE indicate that their presence is part of a broader effort to infuse nostalgia into current events while continuing to bridge generations of wrestling fans. The Hardys have always been fan favorites for their boundary-pushing matches and charismatic personas, and their involvement in SummerSlam 2025 weekend adds a thrilling dimension to one of WWE’s biggest annual shows.

Kane Reacts to Hulk Hogan’s Death

The wrestling world recently mourned the loss of Hulk Hogan, a trailblazer whose impact transcended the industry. Former WWE superstar Kane, known offscreen as Glenn Jacobs, expressed deep respect and mourning following Hogan’s passing[1]. Kane acknowledged Hogan’s profound influence, stating that Hogan was “a pioneer who brought wrestling into the mainstream” and credited him for opening doors for countless wrestlers over decades.

Kane’s reflections have appeared in various WWE official outlets and podcasts, with many wrestlers and industry insiders echoing similar sentiments. Hogan’s legacy, both in and out of the ring, remains a cornerstone of professional wrestling history, and his death marks the closing of a monumental chapter for WWE and fan communities worldwide.

Industry Insight and Potential Impact

This confluence of news paints a complex picture of the current wrestling landscape, where traditional paths intersect with modern digital entrepreneurship and legacy celebration. While the OnlyFans trend signals a new era of financial autonomy for female wrestlers, it has sparked debate among fans and insiders about the implications for wrestling’s culture and talent retention.

A WWE insider familiar with talent relations commented, “It’s a business decision for many now. Wrestling is physically demanding and often short-lived. Platforms like OnlyFans offer a safer, more profitable exit strategy. Promotions have to adapt or risk losing more talent to these alternative opportunities.”

As fans prepare for SummerSlam 2025 with the excitement of The Hardy Boyz’s return, they do so in a wrestling world that’s evolving rapidly beyond the squared circle. The legacy left by icons like Hulk Hogan persists, inspiring both innovation and reverence across the industry.

What’s Next for WWE and AEW?

With more wrestlers reportedly eyeing OnlyFans as a primary revenue stream post-wrestling, WWE and AEW may face new challenges balancing talent contracts and career development. Both companies could consider expanding creative roles, non-wrestling positions, or partnerships that allow performers to maximize earnings while remaining in the industry.

Meanwhile, marquee appearances such as those planned for SummerSlam 2025 continue to showcase the enduring appeal of wrestling’s legends and the excitement they bring to current audiences.

This article is based on reports from Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Wrestling Headlines, and insider sources close to WWE and AEW. Stay tuned for further updates as these stories develop.