While the WWE-UFC merger came as a boon to many, it became a curse to others. The merger took place recently, and the two giant promotions merged to form TKO Group Holdings. However, several employees of the Stamford-based promotion were released after the merger; not only that, WWE released talents as well.
Till now, 17 superstars have been released. Some of the released names even came as a shock to the entire wrestling world. Meanwhile, several pro wrestling stars have extended their support to the newly released stars. Now it seems that Dwayne Johnson himself is upset with the releases.
A “hectic day” is expected today within WWE.
– A few departments are getting merged, with some getting cut.
– A Few layoffs are happening right now.
– A few WWE talents are aware they’re not producing what is needed of them, and will be subject to somewhat of an “audit”.(BWE) pic.twitter.com/t72uWc2swN
— Wrestle Features (@WrestleFeatures) September 15, 2023
Dwayne Johnson took to his ‘X’ handle to comment on the situation. He stated that this is a tough time for pro wrestlers who have been released and who gave their all to the wrestling world. He mentioned Dolph Ziggler, talked about his career, and said that he’ll forever be a supporter and a fan. Lastly, he concluded by saying he would be eager to know what lies ahead for the newly released Superstars.
The Rock said, “Just seeing all these releases now. These days so f’n tough for the ones who gave their all to our crazy world of pro wrestling. Like @HEELZiggler. What a decorated @WWEcareer and I’ll always be a supporter and fan. Can’t wait to see what he (and everyone) does next…“.
Just seeing all these releases now.
These days so f’n tough for the ones who gave their all to our crazy world of pro wrestling. Like @HEELZiggler.
What a decorated @WWE career and I’ll always be a supporter and fan. Can’t wait to see what he (and everyone) does next… #onward pic.twitter.com/uc5vXNxxNk— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) September 22, 2023
Among others, the release of former World Heavyweight Champion Dolph Ziggler came as a shock to many, as he has given 19 years of his life to the Stamford-based promotion. However, he has gained support from the wrestling community. Now, it is to be seen what steps will be taken by the released Superstars, including Ziggler, going forward.
Focusing on the WWE career and accomplishments of Dolph Ziggler
There is a long list of superstars who have fallen victim to WWE’s decision to release talents. After the merger, everyone was concerned about the upcoming days, but no one expected that the number of releases would be so huge. Also, what came as a shock to many was the release of Dolph Ziggler.
Ziggler had a magnificent career in WWE; after all, 19 years isn’t a short period of time. With his exceptional in-ring skills, he has gained immense popularity and, not to mention, has bagged several championships. In addition, his fans absolutely adore him.
Dolph Ziggler’s near TWO decade career with WWE has come to an end.
Thank you Dolph. pic.twitter.com/pnmt2llEpR
— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) September 21, 2023
After entering the Stamford-based promotion in 2004, he never decided to become a part of any other alternative promotions and went on to have a long run with WWE. During the initial years, he kept switching between RAW and OVW. However, permanently settled on the red brand in 2008. His accomplishments during his tenure include:
- NXT Championship once.
- World Heavyweight Championship twice.
- WWE United States Championship twice.
- RAW Tag Team Championship twice.
- SmackDown Tag Team Championship once.
- WWE Intercontinental Championship six times.
- Money in the Bank Contract in 2012.
However, Dolph Ziggler is no longer a part of the Triple H-led promotion, even after he had such a decorated career and was released on September 21, 2023. Speculations have arisen that he could join AEW soon. Now it remains to be seen if he will indeed be a part of WWE’s rival promotion in the upcoming days.
