In the high-octane world of professional wrestling, where the spotlight is as harsh as the physical toll, wrestlers often seek new avenues to connect with their fans and sustain their careers financially. Recently, a fascinating debate emerged surrounding wrestlers leveraging the platform OnlyFans to share exclusive content and generate income. This discussion gained prominence after WWE’s latest roster releases, with former Superstar Cora Jade sparking particular attention by launching her own OnlyFans account. Her move follows in the footsteps of other notable figures such as Mandy Rose, Paige VanZant, and Blair Davenport, who have similarly embraced the platform to stay connected with their audience. However, this trend has not been without controversy, as some fans voiced their disapproval, accusing wrestlers of exploiting their followers for money.
OnlyFans, originally conceptualized as a platform where creators could monetize their content directly from their fans, has found an unexpected yet thriving corner in the wrestling community. The appeal for wrestlers is clear: after sometimes facing uncertain contract statuses, injuries, and the unpredictability of wrestling careers, OnlyFans offers a direct and sometimes lucrative line of income. Mandy Rose, for instance, transitioned from WWE Main Roster stardom to becoming a top earner on the platform, presenting behind-the-scenes glimpses and personalized content that conventional wrestling subscriptions don’t provide. Similarly, Blair Davenport’s announcement of her OnlyFans plans after her departure from WWE in early 2025 drew both fan support and backlash, illustrating the divisiveness of the issue.
Enter Steph De Lander, a star from Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), who took a bold stance against the criticism directed at wrestlers using OnlyFans. When a user on X (formerly Twitter) posted a disparaging message accusing wrestlers on OnlyFans of capitalizing unfairly on their fanbase, De Lander didn’t shy away from calling out the hypocrisy. She asserted that her fame and financial success have significantly increased since adopting OnlyFans after leaving WWE. Her pointed rebuke highlighted that many of these self-same critics are often the first to subscribe to her content or purchase merchandise, emphasizing the complex relationship between performers and their audience. De Lander’s candid response, “I did all of these things after I got released, and now my name is way bigger than it ever was when I was there + I’ve made a bunch more $$. The mfers tryna clown are the same ones that will be the first to sub to their OF or buy their merch lol,” encapsulates the nuanced dynamics at play.
This emergence of OnlyFans in wrestling is a broader reflection of changing digital landscapes and consumer habits. Wrestlers have always found creative ways to engage fans outside the ring—from autograph signings and meet-and-greets to social media interactions. However, OnlyFans represents a more intimate and exclusive connection, offering fans personalized content and experiences not available through traditional promotions or media. Criticism, often rooted in moral judgments or outdated perceptions of content platforms, overlooks the agency and entrepreneurial spirit of these athletes. After all, wrestling audiences have evolved, and so have the methods through which stars maintain relevance and financial stability beyond their on-screen personas. In this context, the backlash against wrestlers’ OnlyFans presence seems increasingly outmoded.
The debate even caught the attention of former WWE Superstar Matt Cardona, known for his vocal presence on social media and candid commentary on wrestling industry matters. Cardona’s blunt dismissal of the critic as a “Dumb mark” underscores how deeply divided the wrestling fandom can be regarding new forms of digital content and monetization. It also reflects a growing acknowledgment within the wrestling community that wrestlers must explore diverse revenue streams. WWE releases leave many talents suddenly thrust into uncertain lives; OnlyFans and similar platforms provide a vital lifeline. Beyond the controversy, these developments signify a broader cultural shift in how wrestlers brand themselves and interact with their supporters.
Wrestling has always been more than just physical competition; it’s a realm where storytelling, personality, and fan connection reign supreme. As traditional wrestling promotions continue to evolve, wrestlers seeking to carve their own paths must navigate these complex terrains. Platforms like OnlyFans empower them to take control of their careers, curate their images, and communicate directly with fans. It’s a brave new frontier, challenging old stigmas and reshaping what it means to be a wrestler in the digital age. So while the debate rages on, one thing remains clear: wrestlers like Steph De Lander, Mandy Rose, and Blair Davenport have boldly staked their claim in this landscape, proving that adaptability and resilience are just as vital outside the ring as within it.
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