Now that his stint with WWE is officially over, Ryback is planning his future which he hopes will involve a full schedule of wrestling dates as well as a possible deal with New Japan Pro Wrestling.
The Wrestling Observer Newsletter reported that Ryback, whose real name is Ryan Reeves, and NJPW have been in talks, but need to come to terms on the number of dates as well as financial compensation.
Reeves also is now taking dates with independent promotions, and reportedly is charging a $4,500 fee for these appearances. However, he is willing to lower that per-appearance fee if a promotion agrees to book him for multiple events. Ryback reportedly is charging $5,000 for interested promoters who do not have a good reputation.
Reeves' time in WWE came to an acrimonious end earlier this year because of a dispute with the promotion over his contract that led to him being sent home by the company on May 2. Reeves posted a lengthy explanation on social media, citing his dissatisfaction with how he was being used creatively and also the pay scale--expressing his belief that talent should receive equal pay.
Reeves' final match in WWE took place on the pre-show for Payback on May 1, which saw him lose a U.S. Title match to then-champion Kalisto. Last Friday, August 5, Ryback posted on Instagram that he was officially finished with WWE. On Monday, WWE issued its own statement announcing Ryback's release from the company.
Reeves already has one independent booking scheduled on October 14 for WrestlePro, where he will use the ring name "The Big Guy."
