In 2025, a notable trend has emerged within the professional wrestling world, with more female talents from WWE and AEW reportedly planning to transition to OnlyFans as a primary career move. This shift is seen by insiders as a strategic business model, leveraging television exposure to build a fanbase before capitalizing on subscription-based content platforms. Alongside this evolving narrative, iconic tag team The Hardy Boyz are confirmed to return for the SummerSlam 2025 weekend, and WWE legend Kane has reacted publicly to the recent passing of Hulk Hogan.
The Rise of OnlyFans Among WWE & AEW Female Wrestlers
According to Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, an increasing number of female wrestlers are using their tenure in major promotions like WWE and AEW as a springboard towards building lucrative careers on OnlyFans. High-profile performers such as Mandy Rose and Elayna Black (formerly known as Cora Jade) have generated significant income from the platform, demonstrating that wrestling TV exposure is no longer just a culminating goal but part of a broader business strategy[1][4].
Meltzer quoted an industry insider who revealed, “One person in wrestling familiar with this noted to us that 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”[4].
This shift is underscored by examples such as Elayna Black, who launched her OnlyFans subscription later in 2025 after leaving WWE. She has reportedly earned more in a single month than any female wrestler in recent memory, emphasizing the financial viability of this path. Similarly, Tegan Nox and Blair Davenport have followed suit, establishing OnlyFans platforms shortly after their WWE releases[2][3].
What differentiates this new career model from previous ones is the calculated marketing approach that includes personal interaction with top-tier subscribers. Meltzer explained that a team often manages private messaging to maintain fan engagement—a critical component in maximizing revenue[3].
AEW’s Toni Storm further demonstrates the feasibility of balancing dual careers by maintaining her wrestling commitments while successfully running an OnlyFans account since 2022, signaling that such a strategy is not limited to ex-WWE talent but extends across major promotions as an emerging norm[2].
The Hardy Boyz Set for SummerSlam 2025 Weekend
In other exciting news for wrestling fans, Wrestling Headlines confirmed that The Hardy Boyz—Matt and Jeff Hardy—are scheduled to appear at SummerSlam 2025 weekend events. Their involvement is anticipated to generate significant buzz given their legendary status and the continued popularity of their tag team performances[1].
Though details regarding whether they will compete or appear in a non-wrestling capacity have yet to be fully disclosed, sources close to WWE suggest their return is part of a renewed effort to connect with longtime fans and add marquee value to the 2025 SummerSlam festivities. The Hardys’ presence will underscore the event’s growing appeal as a must-see wrestling spectacle[1].
Kane Responds to the Passing of Hulk Hogan
On a more somber note, WWE legend and former WWE Chairman Kane recently reacted to the death of Hulk Hogan, one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling history. In interviews with WWE.com and several wrestling podcasts, Kane expressed heartfelt condolences and highlighted Hogan’s indelible impact on the industry.
“Losing a pioneer like Hulk Hogan is losing a part of what made wrestling a global phenomenon,” Kane remarked. “His charisma, larger-than-life persona, and contributions helped shape the path for all of us who came after. My thoughts are with his family and fans worldwide”[1].
Kane’s tribute reinforces the profound respect Hogan commands backstage and among peers while underscoring the wrestling community’s collective mourning for a beloved icon[1].
Industry Implications and Future Outlook
The movement towards OnlyFans among female wrestlers signals a profound transformation in career trajectory planning within wrestling companies. Rather than viewing WWE or AEW contracts as lifelong aspirations, some talents now consider them brand-building phases enabling later financial independence through alternative platforms[3][4].
“Wrestling television exposure is becoming the launching pad rather than the endpoint,” a WWE insider told Fightful. “It’s unprecedented in the history of the sport, but the success stories are undeniable, and more women are quietly strategizing their way out with this blueprint”[2].
As this trend gains steam, it raises questions about long-term talent retention strategies for WWE and AEW as they grapple with evolving expectations. Promotions may need to innovate contract structures or develop new revenue-sharing models to retain talent incentivized by external platforms.
Meanwhile, iconic returns like The Hardy Boyz’ SummerSlam weekend appearance maintain fan excitement for traditional wrestling narratives and star power, balancing nostalgia with current dynamics.
Finally, the poignant reflections from Kane on Hulk Hogan’s passing resonate not only as a tribute but also as a reminder of wrestling’s rich, interconnected history amidst ongoing change.
This convergence of new digital entrepreneurialism, star power returns, and heartfelt tributes encapsulates a pivotal moment in professional wrestling’s evolving landscape in 2025.
— Written by [Your Name], Professional Wrestling Journalist