4 wrestling rumors we hope are true and 4 we hope aren't: WWE legend to return to face Roman Reigns, Blockbuster SummerSlam match now canceled?

#3. Hope isn't true: Braun Strowman's booking demands after his WWE release

Braun Strowman was shockingly released by WWE

Braun Strowman's release from WWE was less of a surprise when news about his lucrative contract came out, but it was still a shock because of his stature with the company.

In the eyes of many WWE fans, Strowman is a star who should have become World Champion by 2017 or 2018 at the latest. Instead, it was only two years later when it finally happened, and even that was due to Roman Reigns pulling out of WrestleMania 36.

Either way, he's no longer a WWE star now. Past comments about never competing outside of WWE have come back to haunt him, and Braun Strowman has reportedly asked for enormous demands should he compete in the independent scene. PWInsider reported:

"Strowman's manager Nick Antocelli has quoted "20-25K" for a three hour appearance to multiple promoters that have reached out with their interest in Strowman appearing for them. Antocelli is also asking for first class airfare, two nights of hotel plus all meals and ground transportation covered. Our initial reporting of "Braun Strowman" would have obviously covered anyone who was representing him and we stand by our report. If he's claiming that he didn't speak to "anyone", he may not have personally, but his representation is certainly speaking for him."

We hope this isn't true, because it's an exorbitant sum to ask from independent promotions, especially right as the United States of America is recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Smaller promotions won't be able to offer that, and even if they can, it's a risk considering the potential return on investment.