Kurt Angle discusses feelings on ECW move as a demotion
Wrestling Inc • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 30, 2026, 1:00 AM
Last updated Jul 30, 2026

WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle recently talked about his transition to the revived ECW brand in 2006. He recalled his conversation with Vince McMahon, who informed him that the move would involve smaller arenas and a pay cut. Angle expressed that he felt the shift was a demotion, particularly given his status as a top wrestler. Despite the brand's struggles to gain traction, Angle acknowledged he was initially optimistic about its ratings. This move has been a point of reflection for him, as he considers how McMahon intended to mold him in a similar way to former ECW star Taz.
- •Kurt Angle moved to WWE's ECW brand in June 2006.
- •Angle felt the move was a demotion and expressed bitterness.
- •Vince McMahon indicated that Angle would receive a pay cut.
- •Angle wanted to be recognized for in-ring abilities rather than hardcore wrestling.
- •The ECW brand struggled and never fully established itself.
- 1:00 AMWrestling Inc — Kurt Angle Says Being Moved To WWE ECW Felt Like A 'Demotion' At The Time
"WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle recently recalled a conversation he had with Vince McMahon ahead of being assigned to the revived ECW brand.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
WWE•Sep 23, 2026, 12:30 PMSimone Johnson Says WWE Main Roster Star Was Her Favorite Person To Work With In NXT
WWE•Sep 23, 2026, 12:00 PMWhy WWE Should Avoid Roman Reigns Vs. Oba Femi At WrestleMania 43
WWE•Sep 23, 2026, 5:11 AMKip Sabian And Penelope Ford To Remain With AEW Amid Contract Speculation
WWE•Sep 23, 2026, 5:00 AMRumor Roundup (Sept. 23, 2026): AEW uncertainty, WWE counter programming, more!
WWE•Sep 23, 2026, 2:30 AMSean Sharaf knew Gable Steveson was looking past him before UFC 331
WWE•Sep 23, 2026, 2:26 AMThea Hail Set For WWE NXT Women's NA Title Match
