Lana (CJ Perry) Says She Was “Shocked” by WWE Legends Deal, Discusses Fan Criticism

Lana says she was “shocked” when WWE approached her with a Legends contract, noting she immediately understood why some fans questioned the decision. After getting released in 2021, she returned to the company earlier this year under the new agreement, which was signed around the time her husband, Rusev, finalized his WWE deal.

In an interview with Chris Van Vliet, Lana, whose real name is CJ Perry, recalled how the contract drew backlash online. She explained that many fans compared her to established icons and felt the “legend” label did not match her. Lana agreed that the term can be misleading because WWE uses “Legends” differently, and it was not like she was alongside stars like Randy Savage.

She recalled the moment her agent informed her of the offer and said the news moved her to tears because she never expected to be given a legend’s contract.

“I’m still processing it. It’s funny, because I would say it’s been kind of controversial. One of the biggest things that I had on my podcast last week was announcing that I’m a WWE legend, and you thought I stole their Christmas presents or something, people were so mad. People were like, it’s a stretch, and they’re fighting, and then other fans are coming in and defending me. So I just want to acknowledge I understand, I was that shocked too. I absolutely understand that there’s a huge difference between the character Lana and Randy Savage on the legend scale. I get it, but this is what WWE calls their contracts, being a full WWE superstar. My agent called me. I was crying. I was shocked. Yeah, they gave Miro a contract, and they gave me the WWE legend contract at the same time.”

The Legends contract allows WWE to produce new merchandise, schedule appearances, and potentially integrate Lana into future television plans when creative timing demands it.

I will never forget the fans, and the love they showed me. Whether it was a tank, power-suits, flags, CRUSH, Rusev, 900 partners, weddings or tables: I tried to always entertain you, and you definitely elevated me. Thank you. pic.twitter.com/n7W5i5KAMI

— CJ Perry (@TheCJPerry) June 2, 2021