Jim Cornette, a name synonymous with professional wrestling, has earned significant wealth throughout his career. From his early days as a wrestling manager to his tenure as a promoter, commentator, and podcast host, Jim Cornette net worth has seen steady growth.
In this article, we’ll explore how Jim Cornette built his fortune, examining his salary, business ventures, and financial contributions to wrestling. Additionally, we’ll look at the various roles he played across multiple promotions, from his time with WWE to his work with Smoky Mountain Wrestling and beyond.
Not only will we delve into his wealth and financial outlook in 2024, but we’ll also compare his career to other prominent figures in the wrestling industry.
By the end, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how Cornette’s career achievements, salary, and investments have contributed to his impressive financial standing. So, let’s take a closer look at the financial success of this wrestling legend.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | James Mark Cornette |
| Popular Name | Jim Cornette |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | September 17, 1961 |
| Age | 63 years old (2024) |
| Parents | Doug Cornette, Thelma Cornette |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Birthplace | Louisville, Kentucky, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | Graduated from Fern Creek High School, Louisville |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Synn (m. 2007), Janice Kelly Crowl (m. 1987–2002) |
| Children | None |
| Dating | Married to Stacy Cornette |
| Net Worth | $5 million |
| Source of Wealth | Professional wrestling manager, promoter, commentator, and booker |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) |
What is Jim Cornette Net Worth in 2024?
Jim Cornette, a towering figure in the world of professional wrestling, has amassed a remarkable net worth over his decades-long career. With a net worth estimated at $5 million in 2024, Cornette’s wealth has largely come from his work as a wrestling manager, commentator, and promoter.
His financial success has been fueled by his tenure with various wrestling promotions like WWE, WCW, and Smoky Mountain Wrestling.
In comparison to other wrestling industry icons, Cornette’s net worth places him in an interesting position within the wrestling world. Wrestlers and personalities such as The Rock, Vince McMahon, and Stone Cold Steve Austin earn significantly more, with their net worth figures soaring above $100 million.
However, Cornette’s contribution to the business, especially his legendary status as a manager, commentator, and promoter, gives him a distinct place in wrestling history.
Other wrestlers with notable wealth:
- The Rock
- Vince McMahon
- Stone Cold Steve Austin
- Shawn Michaels
- Bret Hart
To dive deeper into how these figures compare in terms of net worth, check out our article on the top-earning wrestlers.
Jim Cornette Wealth, Salary and Finance Overview
Early Beginnings and Career Foundation
Jim Cornette’s path to wealth began in the 1980s when he became involved in professional wrestling. Starting his career in the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA), he initially made a name for himself as a manager, a role that would become his trademark throughout his career.
Early on, his sharp wit, passionate persona, and unique managerial style helped wrestlers get over with fans and secure high-profile matches, leading to bigger paydays.
Key Wrestling Promotions that Shaped Jim Cornette’s Income
Smoky Mountain Wrestling (1991-1995) was a significant chapter in Cornette’s career. As the owner of this independent promotion, he not only generated income from ticket sales but also expanded his wealth through television deals and merchandising.
While running Smoky Mountain Wrestling, Cornette gained experience both as a promoter and a manager, and this solidified his influence in the wrestling business.
His career took a significant turn when he joined WWF/WWE in 1993. As a manager for famous stars like Owen Hart and Yokozuna, Cornette earned substantial income from his managerial contracts and special appearance fees.
Additionally, his work as a commentator for WWE further bolstered his wealth. His role in major pay-per-view events, such as WrestleMania, provided him with additional compensation.
Earnings as a Wrestling Manager and Commentator
Cornette’s income came not only from his direct work in the ring but also from his commentary roles, particularly during his time with WWE. Commentators in professional wrestling can earn substantial amounts, with contracts that include base salaries as well as bonuses for pay-per-view events.
Cornette’s ability to manage top-tier talent and deliver compelling commentary made him an indispensable part of WWE’s broadcasts.
His time with TNA (Total Nonstop Action Wrestling) and Ring of Honor after his WWE stint further added to his income. Although he didn’t stay with these promotions for long periods, his role as a wrestling personality and manager continued to drive his earnings.
Ownership of Smoky Mountain Wrestling
One of the most notable financial milestones in Jim Cornette’s career came when he became the owner of Smoky Mountain Wrestling (SMW). This independent promotion was known for producing high-quality wrestling shows that attracted a dedicated fan base, allowing Cornette to generate significant revenue.
His ownership of SMW showcased his entrepreneurial spirit, as he handled the business side of wrestling, including talent contracts, TV rights, and merchandise sales.
Running SMW also gave Cornette the financial freedom to expand his influence in the wrestling world. Though the promotion eventually folded in 1995, it laid the groundwork for his long-term financial success.
Contributions to Other Wrestling Companies
Jim Cornette’s role in other prominent wrestling organizations also contributed to his wealth. He worked with Ring of Honor (ROH) from 2009 to 2012 and with Global Force Wrestling (GFW) in 2015.
These were important milestones in his career, not only providing him with new opportunities to manage and book matches but also contributing to his overall earnings. His involvement in these promotions, though not as financially lucrative as his time with WWE, helped maintain his status in the industry.
FAQs about Jim Cornette
What is his most famous role in wrestling?
Jim Cornette is most famously known for his managerial role in the wrestling industry. He managed top-tier wrestlers such as Yokozuna, Owen Hart, and The British Bulldog, which solidified his position as one of the most influential managers in wrestling history.
Has he ever won any major awards in wrestling?
Yes, Jim Cornette has been recognized with several honors in his wrestling career, including inductions into wrestling hall of fame ceremonies and recognition for his contributions to the business.
What was his role in Smoky Mountain Wrestling?
Jim Cornette founded Smoky Mountain Wrestling (SMW) in 1991, where he not only worked as a manager but also as a promoter and booker, helping the promotion grow into a regional powerhouse in the wrestling world.
What is his relationship with WWE?
Jim Cornette worked for WWE from 1993 to 2005 as a manager, commentator, and booker. He managed several high-profile stars and became a key figure in WWE programming during his time there.
How did he manage his financial success?
Cornette managed his wealth by diversifying his career across various aspects of the wrestling business. From being a manager and promoter to a commentator and podcast host, his multiple income streams helped him build his net worth over the years.
Conclusion
Jim Cornette’s career in professional wrestling is a testament to his hard work and business acumen. His wealth, built over decades in the industry, reflects his success as a manager, promoter, and commentator. If you’re interested in learning more about Jim Cornette or other wrestling personalities, feel free to leave a comment, share, or explore more content on savebarneysny.com.
