WWE News: Jack Swagger talks about making money in the Indies vs WWE; Bobby Lashley's advice to him

Whats the story?

Former WWE Superstar and current Bellator MMA signee Jack Swagger (Jake Hager) recently completed an interview where he discussed multiple subjects involving professional wrestling.

During the interview, Swagger acknowledged that he is making a “good living” through bookings on the independent scene and has enjoyed building relationships with promotions to maintain a steady income.

In case you didn't know...

Jack Swagger competed for World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) over a timespan of roughly 10 years (late 2006 to early 2017) capturing numerous championships including a run with the World Heavyweight Championship in 2010.

After his departure from the company, he began wrestling on the independent circuit, joining the House of Hardcore tour of Australia, while also making appearances in Mexico, and other promotions such as All American Wrestling, and WhatCulture Pro Wrestling.

Swagger’s background in wrestling (All-American in wrestling at Oklahoma University) also motivated him to pursue a career in MMA. In November 2017, he signed on for a fight with Bellator MMA in their Heavyweight division.

The heart of the matter

Swagger continued to discuss making money in the indies: “It is kind of like a supply and demand right now. You have to price yourself right in order to optimize your profit. I wouldn’t say that it is more than the WWE but it is a nice living.”

He also identified Lucha Underground as a promotion he could have success with if the opportunity presented itself. He went on to praise the promotion’s Hollywood style presentation and the emphasis they place on cinematography.

When discussing his transition into MMA, Swagger pointed to his friend Bobby Lashley as someone who he was able to take advice from when making the jump. Swagger believes he can mirror Lashley’s career and do both professional wrestling and MMA without a conflict.

What’s next?

Jack Swagger’s MMA debut will be sometime in 2018 with reports leaning towards a fight in April or May for the former World Champion.

Author’s Take

Swagger is continuing the growing trend of professional wrestlers being able to make very good money outside of WWE and other major promotions. A foray into MMA is also interesting given his background and success in wrestling prior to joining WWE.

Swagger felt like a wasted opportunity for the WWE during the last few years of his career in the promotion. He had “all the tools” -- as Jim Ross would say -- that WWE look for in a talent and while the blame is shared between Swagger and WWE for his squandered potential.