Club WWE, the paid membership program John Cena introduced on Monday Night Raw on April 13, is drawing criticism from fans over its cost and its Founding Member package, according to coverage from ClutchPoints and SEScoops.
SEScoops reported that the Founding Member tier costs $99 a year. The physical kit includes a match-used ring canvas collectible piece, an exclusive Club WWE lanyard, a Founder pin and a letter to members signed by Cena. It has not been confirmed whether the signature is authentic or a printed facsimile.
Cena announced the program in a digital segment on Raw. ClutchPoints listed its announced features as early access to tickets, exclusive merchandise drops, a points and rewards program, a community forum and bonus content from WWE Superstars.
ClutchPoints collected fan reaction to the announcement, and the tone was negative. One fan wrote: "How much? We already pay for espn Netflix ppv usa network." Another called it "Pay before you pay." ClutchPoints reported that fans described the program as a "robbery," with the main objection being a new cost layered on top of existing streaming subscriptions and premium live event purchases.
WhatCulture reported that WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select said the announcement tied to Cena would involve Club WWE. The report framed the news as a disappointment for fans, and WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select reported concern inside WWE about how the rollout would be received. The same report said Cena's involvement was a huge boost for promoting the program.
The criticism comes from fans and insiders, and nothing reported says the items in the Founding Member kit are defective.
It is not yet known how many fans have joined at the $99 level or whether WWE will respond to the reaction. As of Sunday, the Founding Member tier is listed at $99 a year, and no change to the package has been announced.
