In the wake of the monumental $1.4 billion deal following the TKO merger, WWE has found itself in a state of transformation. While the ink on the billion-dollar contract was still fresh, the company began a series of staff layoffs, with over 100 employees affected so far. Among them, over 20 wrestlers, including big names like Dolph Ziggler, Mustafa Ali, and Emma, faced the brunt of these changes. And the numbers may continue to rise.
In a heartfelt response to these developments, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, a former pro wrestler himself, took to his official social media account to express his empathy and solidarity with the released WWE stars. Johnson acknowledged the hardships these talented individuals face as they bid farewell to the world of professional wrestling.
Particularly, Johnson singled out Dolph Ziggler, a two-time World Heavyweight Champion, for special recognition. He lauded Ziggler’s decorated career and offered words of encouragement for his future endeavors in the wrestling industry. Johnson’s message conveyed his unwavering support and anticipation for what lies ahead for Ziggler and all the other released talents.
In a tweet, Johnson shared his thoughts: “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.”
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However, the changes in WWE don’t stop at talent releases. The company has also made significant moves following its merger with UFC. According to reports from The Wall Street Journal, WWE has entered into a five-year broadcasting rights agreement with the USA Network. As part of this deal, WWE SmackDown will make its debut on the USA Network in October of the following year.
Stephen’s Insight:
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s legendary wrestling career has spanned over two decades, but now, it’s his daughter, Simone Johnson, going by the ring name Ava Raine, who’s stepping into the spotlight. Her recent highly anticipated debut on the latest NXT episode marked a significant moment in her journey. It’s a testament to the enduring legacy of the Johnson family in the world of professional wrestling.
Simone Johnson’s playful and cryptic tweet, indirectly teasing her father, added an intriguing layer to her debut. It not only showcased her sense of humor but also alluded to the rich history of storytelling and familial connections that often play a crucial role in the wrestling world. As Simone continues to carve her path in NXT, fans will be closely following her career, eager to witness her growth and potential in the squared circle and see how she continues to honor her family’s wrestling heritage.
