WWE Releases Dolph Ziggler, Elias, Mustafa Ali, and More
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has announced the latest group of releases among the talents employed by the company. This group includes Dolph Ziggler, Elias, Shelton Benjamin, Emma, Dana White, and many more.
The latest round of WWE releases comes after the company’s merger with Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) became official. The merger has led to the formation of the TKO Group.
WWE Releases Dolph Ziggler and More in Latest Layoffs
As mentioned, one of the most well-known names included in the new set of layoffs is Dolph Ziggler. Ziggler, who has been with the company since 2004, is a former two-time World Heavyweight Champion.
Mustafi Ali is also part of the latest WWE releases. While he never became champion during his stay with the company, he was a member of the roster for the last seven years. A report by ComicBook.com notes that Mustafi Ali was scheduled to compete for the NXT North American Championship against Dominik Mysterio during the NXT No Mercy PPV on September 30.
Released alongside them is Shelton Benjamin, whose first run with the company started in 2000 until 2010. He returned to WWE seven years later.
Elias, who has been a free agent prior to his release, is also departing the company. He has been with WWE for the last nine years.
Here are the other talents part of the latest WWE releases:
- Aliyah (Smackdown)
- Bryson Montana (WWE Performance Center recruit)
- Dabba Kato (NXT)
- Dana Brooke (Monday Night Raw)
- Emma (Smackdown)
- Mace (Monday Night Raw)
- Mansoor (Monday Night Raw)
- Quincy Elliott (NXT)
- Rick Boogs (Smackdown)
- Riddick Moss (Smackdown)
- Shanky (Monday Night Raw)
- Top Dolla (Smackdown)
- Yulisa Leon (NXT)
Former Talent Comment on Their Departure
Since the announcements have been made, multiple former talents have aired their thoughts on their release from WWE. Emma, whose real name is Tenille Dashwood, previously tweeted about her excitement over WWE’s PPV in Australia. However, she has since quote tweeted that same tweet in reaction to her release from the company.
Oops nevermind. I just got released…
I am no longer with WWE. https://t.co/ZdwPhdKMk7
— Tenille Dashwood (@EmmaWWE) September 21, 2023
On the other hand, Elias recounted some of the best moments of his career with WWE in his own tweet, ending it with “It’s been a blast. God is Good!”
From Drifting onto the scene..
To WrestleMania with John Cena & The Undertaker..
To Millions around the world for years Walking With Elias..
A #1 ITunes Album
& To being my own younger brother (ZEKE)
while traveling the world..
It’s been a blast.
God is Good!
— Elias (@IAmEliasWWE) September 21, 2023
Shelton Benjamin, meanwhile, thanked the staff, talent, and fans in his own tweeted message regarding his release.
I have been released from my wwe contract. I thank @wwe staff , talent, and of course the fans for Everything. Something ends, something new Begins. Looking forward to my next Chapter
— Shelton J. Benjamin (@Sheltyb803) September 21, 2023