USA Today Examines WWE

CNN had a televisted report over a week ago taking a look at mostly the Chris Benoit incident and the pro wrestling lifestyle. Now USA Today has a November 19th article discussing the WWE and all its issues. At the heart of the article are the usual suspects; steroid use, the grueling physically demanding schedule and whether or not WWE is doing enough to protect wrestlers.

The article discusses the fact that WWE may be appearing in Congressional hearings as early as December. The hearings may determine if WWE has done and is doing enough to ensure for the safety of its performers.

Here's a few highlights from the article:

- The WWE, which employs about 160 wrestlers, has suspended 30 under the drug-testing component of its Talent Wellness Program since it began in February 2006.

- Most WWE performers make $100,000 a year — only a few earn more than $1 million — but a vast majority of pro wrestlers make less than $50,000.

- The circumstances of the Benoit case are what got the attention of the powerful House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Waxman says. His committee, and that of Rep. Bobby Rush, D-Ill., chair of the House Energy subcommittee on Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection, could consider a number of actions, including government regulation of pro wrestling, which is considered an entertainment industry.

You can read the full article here at USA Today, which has commentary from former and present wrestlers such as Marc Mero and CM Punk as well as various medical experts and wrestling insiders.