Over the years, Mahal’s WWE journey was marked by significant achievements, including reigns as the United States Champion and the 24/7 Champion, and a high-profile challenge against Seth Rollins for the World Heavyweight Championship earlier this year. Despite his successful run, Mahal now finds himself a free agent once more, prompting him to reflect on how this release differs from his first departure.
In an honest discussion with Chris Van Vliet on “Insight,” Mahal opened up about his current situation. While he acknowledged some frustration with being released, he also emphasized a sense of acceptance and readiness for new opportunities. “It was frustrating, but that’s okay because that’s what WWE is,” Mahal shared. “It’s time for the next generation. It’s time for the Bron Breakkers and the Carmelos. It’s their time. I had my time and maybe my time will come back. But it’s time right now to step away and do other things.”
Mahal’s perspective on his departure is marked by a clear contrast to his earlier release. Reflecting on his past experience, he pointed out how his situation has evolved. “When I was released in 2014, I had been sent to developmental, fought for the NXT Championship, and was seemingly stuck in the midcard,” he recalled. “Now, I’ve had an entirely different career path. I’m at peace with it.”
This release feels markedly different to Mahal for several reasons. “I’m a grown man now. I’ll be turning 38 the day after this interview airs,” he noted. “I’m in a different place in my life. I’ve had a great career. At that time when I got released, the best thing I had done was being in 3MB. Now I’ve been a WWE Champion, headlined PPVs, and traveled the world. I’m in a different place financially. So yeah, a lot has changed.”
As Mahal transitions out of WWE, he is reverting to his original wrestling name, Raj Dhesi. He is poised to embark on new ventures in the wrestling world, starting with an appearance for Black Label Pro on July 26. Additionally, he will be part of AAA’s TripleMania XXXII in Mexico City on August 17, where he will team up with AEW star Satnam Singh to challenge for the AAA Tag Team Championship.
Mahal’s journey from being a promising young talent to a seasoned veteran underscores the dynamic and ever-changing nature of professional wrestling. His reflections on his WWE career and his optimistic outlook on future opportunities paint a picture of a wrestler who has embraced both the highs and lows of the industry with resilience and grace.
