Former WWE Champion Jinder Mahal recently addressed a common misconception about WWE’s 90-day period following talent releases, explaining that wrestlers remain under contract and continue to be paid during that time.
Mahal made the comments following reports that Ilja Dragunov is leaving WWE. According to Mahal, what is commonly referred to by fans as a “90-day non-compete clause” is actually notice that WWE is terminating the wrestler’s contract. “There is no such thing as a 90-day non-compete clause, even when you get released. WWE is giving you 90 days’ notice that your contract is being terminated. You remain under contract and continue getting paid during that period. Once the 90 days are up, you’re free to work anywhere.”
Mahal also pointed out an important distinction for wrestlers whose contracts reach their natural expiration date. “And obviously, if your contract simply expires, you’re free to work anywhere immediately.”
Addressing criticism from fans over WWE’s release process, Mahal suggested that wrestlers themselves are generally more concerned about what happens after the 90-day period than they are about being paid while waiting for their contracts to terminate. “Fans are way more outraged than any wrestler over the paid 90 days part. We’re worried what will come after it.”
One fan argued that WWE was effectively reneging on the remainder of a wrestler’s contract by terminating it early. Mahal pushed back on that characterization, noting that the provision is included in contracts signed by talent. “It’s not reneging if it’s clearly explained in the contract we all willingly sign.”
Mahal also provided additional insight into how wrestlers are compensated during the 90-day period. He explained that talent continues receiving their weekly downside guarantee, although those payments count toward the guaranteed amount in their contracts. “Still pay you your weekly downside guarantee but it will erode your bucket amount. End of 90, if there is a surplus, they’ll cut the check.”
When another fan suggested that receiving three months of pay at least gives released wrestlers time to determine their next career move, Mahal agreed and referenced his own experience following his WWE departure. “I didn’t mind making 6 figures in 90 days while I decide my next moves.”
Mahal was released from WWE in April 2024 after his second run with the company. His comments come amid reports surrounding Dragunov’s WWE departure, although Mahal’s explanation highlights a potentially significant distinction: a wrestler whose contract expires would not be subject to the same 90-day termination period and would instead be free to work elsewhere immediately.
There is no such thing as a 90-day non-compete clause, even when you get released. WWE is giving you 90 days’ notice that your contract is being terminated. You remain under contract and continue getting paid during that period. Once the 90 days are up, you’re free to work… https://t.co/XnbkLSI2Mi
— The Maharaja (@RajTheMaharaja) August 21, 2026
