Anonymous pro sports owner 'appalled' by WWE layoffs

WWE announced major company-wide layoffs earlier this week as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, and the move didn't sit well with one professional sports owner.

In the latest issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer shared the following quote from an anonymous co-owner of a major-league franchise who was said to be "appalled" by WWE's cuts:

"I've had to do two layoffs in my life. They both sucked, but I always understood they sucked more for the people being laid off," the owner said, according to Forbes' Alfred Konuwa. "I know a few people in the wrestling business, one who lost their job in the furlough today. I understand layoffs. But given WWE's cash position; the essential business status they negotiated; the unsafe conditions they are already asking workers to commit to; and the fact that they are doing so much better than every other live/place-based business, for them to be the first company in the business to have such a significant layoff is unpalatable."

The individual also stated they will no longer support WWE as a fan.

"I bought tickets to WrestleMania and was excited to go. I enjoyed watching the empty-arena, cinematic two-day show they put on and planned to be a loyal customer to the company. Until this."

Wednesday's layoffs came two days after Florida deemed WWE an "essential business," allowing the company to resume live televised shows in the state. Among those cut loose by WWE were Kurt Angle, Rusev, and Drake Maverick.