The professional wrestling world is abuzz with the news that Ridge Holland, known to fans as Luke Menzies, will be leaving WWE next month. With his contract set to expire on November 14, Holland finds himself in a challenging situation, nursing a serious injury while facing an uncertain future. Here’s a deeper dive into the circumstances surrounding his departure, including the frustration among WWE talent and the implications of WWE’s decision.
Background on Ridge Holland’s Situation
Ridge Holland, a stalwart in the WWE, has been dealing with a significant foot injury—a Lisfranc fracture—sustained during a TNA match. This injury has sidelined him for the next six to seven months, a period during which he will not receive any guaranteed pay from WWE. Despite the injury occurring while he was part of a WWE-approved event, Holland’s contract situation paints a complex picture.
Holland’s original main roster contract expired in November 2024. He accepted a one-year extension at a significantly reduced salary, approximately $200,000 less than his previous deal. This extension is the contract that will expire next month, marking the end of his time with WWE[1][3][4].
WWE’s Handling of Holland’s Injury
While WWE will cover the costs of Holland’s medical rehabilitation, this decision is not seen as a gesture of goodwill but rather a legal necessity. The injury was sustained during a company-sanctioned event, meaning WWE is obligated to cover the expenses to avoid potential legal action[1][4]. This nuance highlights the tension between WWE’s business interests and the well-being of its performers.
“The situation with Ridge Holland is a stark reminder of how the wrestling industry can sometimes prioritize business over the welfare of its talent,” said a WWE insider, reflecting on the broader implications of such decisions. “It’s understandable that WWE would want to minimize financial obligations, but it’s also important to recognize the sacrifices these performers make for the sake of the company.”
Backstage Reaction
The news of Holland’s contract not being renewed has sparked frustration among WWE talent. Many feel that such a situation would have been handled differently pre-pandemic, highlighting a perceived shift in how WWE treats its injured performers. “It’s clear that WWE is tightening its belt, but it’s disheartening to see someone like Ridge Holland, who has given so much to the company, left without a safety net during his recovery,” explained a veteran WWE talent, who wished to remain anonymous[3][6].
Additional Factors: TNA Appearances
Holland’s situation is further complicated by the fact that he was not paid extra for his appearances in TNA, despite these events being part of a WWE-approved talent exchange. This lack of additional compensation adds to the financial strain he faces during his injury rehabilitation[3][4].
Implications for WWE and Its Talent
The decision to let Holland’s contract expire while he is injured raises questions about WWE’s policies towards its performers. In the wake of this news, there is growing concern among talent about how injuries might be handled in the future. The unease is not just about financial security but also about the perceived lack of support for those who are injured while performing company-related duties.
As one WWE talent noted, “The fear is that if this can happen to someone like Ridge Holland, who has been loyal and sacrificed his body for the company, it could happen to anyone. It’s a tough pill to swallow.”
Conclusion
Ridge Holland’s departure from WWE under these circumstances highlights the complexities and challenges faced by professional wrestlers. While WWE continues to expand its roster and deliver high-quality content, the handling of Holland’s situation serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between business interests and talent welfare. As the wrestling industry evolves, it will be crucial for companies like WWE to address these concerns and ensure that their performers are adequately supported, both on and off the stage.
With the WWE landscape constantly shifting, fans and talent alike await the next steps in Holland’s career. Whether he chooses to pursue opportunities elsewhere or remains hopeful for a return, his story serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those in the wrestling world.