Ridge Holland's WWE Exit: A Bitter End to an Unfolding Saga

Ridge Holland's Departure from WWE: The Inside Story

In a move that caught many off guard, Ridge Holland, known to fans as Luke Menzies, has officially been released from WWE and subsequently moved to the alumni section of WWE's roster page. This decision comes amid controversy and significant challenges for the former rugby professional.

Originally, Holland's contract was set to expire on November 14, 2025. However, WWE decided to terminate his agreement early, leading to questions about the circumstances surrounding his exit. Reports suggest that his departure was directly influenced by recent social media activity, which WWE interpreted as a breach of contract.

The Fallout from Social Media Posts

Holland took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his frustrations, notably stating that he felt “hung out to dry” by the company. This post came after he was informed that WWE would not be renewing his contract—a revelation that hit hard while he was also dealing with a significant injury.

“I don't know how I'm going to pay my mortgage,” Holland lamented in his post, reflecting the financial strain he was under due to his ongoing recovery.

Injury and Financial Struggles

Currently recuperating from a Lisfranc foot injury sustained in September 2025 while working for TNA as a WWE representative, Holland's situation has only exacerbated his financial woes. To complicate matters, he mentioned that he wasn't compensated for his TNA appearance, a troubling oversight that reflects broader issues regarding WWE's treatment of its talent.

The length of his recovery is projected to extend into 2026, and he may face additional neck surgery, further raising the stakes for Holland's career and financial future.

WWE's Perspective and Reaction

Despite Holland's troubling revelations, industry veteran Dave Meltzer reported on Wrestling Observer Radio that WWE believed Menzies should have anticipated his release following a pay cut he accepted in 2024. This perspective begs the question: Is it fair for a company to hold its talent accountable for financial decisions that may prove detrimental, especially when those decisions are made under duress?

WWE's stance appears to be one of neglecting the personal challenges its talents face outside the ring, a sentiment echoed by many who advocate for better treatment of athletes within the industry.

The Terms of His Exit

While Holland's contract was officially terminated on November 5, 2025, it seems WWE is still liable for covering his injury rehab costs, primarily to avoid potential legal repercussions. This situation places WWE in a complicated position, as they balance corporate interests against the well-being of their athletes.

Looking Ahead: Ridge Holland's Future

With his WWE tenure officially over, Ridge Holland is slated to make his first appearance post-departure at the GCW "Dream On Fan Slam" on November 22, 2025. This meet and greet, while a positive step, underscores the difficulty Holland faces in truly reintegrating into the wrestling scene, given that he remains unable to compete physically.

Reflection on Holland's Journey

This saga raises important questions about the treatment of wrestlers in the industry. How much responsibility does WWE bear for supporting athletes like Holland, especially during times of injury and personal crisis? Moving forward, the wrestling community must consider the human aspects behind these athletic personas. The way organizations handle such exits reflects on their commitment not just to the entertainment value, but also to the well-being of the individuals who create that value.

Additional Resources

For fans and critics alike, understanding the nuances behind Holland's exit provides a critical lens through which to assess the broader implications for WWE and the wrestling landscape. It will be essential to watch these developments closely as they unfold.

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Source reference: https://www.newsweek.com/sports/wrestling/wwe-superstar-is-officially-done-with-the-company-11005431