WWE made a mass round of talent cuts on Thursday, which included Dolph Ziggler, Mustafa Ali, Elias, Shelton Benjamin, Riddick Moss, Emma, Aliyah, and “Top Dolla” AJ Francis from the main roster, and Quincy Elliott, Shanky, Bryson Montana, Yulisa Leon, Dabba-Kato, Kevin Ventura-Cortez, Alexis Gray, and Daniel McArthur from NXT.
The company was looking to cut back on $50 million to $100 million in expenses following the merger with UFC to form the TKO Holdings Group.
Dave Meltzer reported the following in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter:
“The key to the releases were talent making main roster money but not being used on the main roster and with the idea that they were not going to be used in the future,” Meltzer wrote.
“It’s time in vs. how much money you are paid vs. return on investment,” said one WWE official regarding the talent cuts.”
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WWE Makes Mass Round of Talent Cuts: What You Need to Know
In a surprising move, WWE announced a mass round of talent cuts on Thursday, which included several well-known names from both the main roster and NXT. Among those released were Dolph Ziggler, Mustafa Ali, Elias, Shelton Benjamin, Riddick Moss, Emma, Aliyah, and “Top Dolla” AJ Francis from the main roster, and Quincy Elliott, Shanky, Bryson Montana, Yulisa Leon, Dabba-Kato, Kevin Ventura-Cortez, Alexis Gray, and Daniel McArthur from NXT.
The decision to release these talents came as WWE looked to cut back on expenses following its merger with UFC to form the TKO Holdings Group. The company aimed to reduce costs by $50 million to $100 million. This move is seen as a strategic measure to streamline operations and maximize profitability in the wake of the merger.
According to Dave Meltzer’s report in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the releases were primarily driven by talents who were making main roster salaries but were not being utilized in significant roles. The company assessed the time invested in these talents versus the return on investment and made the decision to let them go.
While it is undoubtedly a disappointing turn of events for the released wrestlers, it is important to note that the professional wrestling industry is known for its ups and downs. Wrestlers often face periods of uncertainty and career transitions. Many wrestlers have successfully reinvented themselves or found opportunities in other promotions after being released from WWE.
For fans of these wrestlers, it is crucial to continue supporting them as they navigate this challenging period in their careers. Independent wrestling promotions and other major organizations may provide new platforms for these talented individuals to showcase their skills and connect with fans.
As for WWE, the company will likely continue to evaluate its roster and make necessary adjustments to ensure a strong financial position moving forward. This round of talent cuts should not be seen as an indication of a decline in WWE’s overall success or its commitment to providing entertaining content for its fans.
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In conclusion, WWE’s mass round of talent cuts has sent shockwaves through the wrestling community. While it is a challenging time for the released wrestlers, it is important to remember that the industry is resilient, and opportunities for them to thrive in other promotions may arise. WWE will continue to adapt and make necessary changes to ensure its financial stability. Stay tuned to eWrestlingNews for the latest updates and continue supporting your favorite wrestlers during this transitional phase.