Hours after WWE reportedly reached a new deal to broadcast Friday Night SmackDown beginning in 2024, multiple members of the company’s roster took to social media to reveal that they had been released.
Perhaps the most prominent — and shocking — wrestler to be laid off by WWE on Thursday was Dolph Ziggler (real name Nic Nemeth), whose release was first reported by Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp.
A multi-time world champion who had been under contract with WWE since 2004, Ziggler had made plenty of fans both in the “WWE Universe” and in the company’s locker room. That includes one of the biggest stars in the history of sports entertainment, John Cena, who took to social media shortly after news of Ziggler’s release was first announced to praise the Cleveland, Ohio, native.
“One thousand five hundred and fifty four matches,” Cena wrote on the social media platform X, referencing the number of career matches the Ziggler had in WWE before tagging his handle and adding #Respect.
One thousand five hundred and fifty four matches. @HEELZiggler #Respect
— John Cena (@JohnCena) September 21, 2023
According to Cagematch.net, 84 of Ziggler’s career matches have come against Cena. And while the 6-time WWE Intercontinental Champion only beat Cena four times, one of those wins came in a memorable ladder match at the TLC: Table, Ladders and Chairs pay-per-view in 2012.
As for what’s next for Ziggler, it’s worth noting that in addition to wrestling, the 43-year-old has tried his hand at standup comedy and political commentary in recent years. He’d also make for a natural fit in WWE’s rival promotion, All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where his brother, Ryan Nemeth, is currently under contract.
About Ben Axelrod
Ben Axelrod is a veteran of the sports media landscape, having most recently worked for NBC's Cleveland affiliate, WKYC. Prior to his time in Cleveland, he covered Ohio State football and the Big Ten for outlets including Cox Media Group, Bleacher Report, Scout and Rivals.