Ridge Holland, the former WWE star known for his powerhouse style and role in The Brawling Brutes, recently revealed he may require neck surgery while still recovering from a severe foot injury. This update comes amid news that WWE will not be renewing his contract, effectively ending his tenure with the company as he remains sidelined.
Serious Lisfranc Injury and Surgery Update
Holland sustained a Lisfranc injury to his foot in late September during a TNA iMPACT taping in Edmonton, Alberta, where he wrestled against Moose. The injury was severe enough to necessitate surgery, which he underwent on October 3, 2025. Lisfranc injuries involve ligament damage in the midfoot and can require lengthy rehabilitation, often sidelining athletes for months[1][2].
He recently shared on social media that he is scheduled to have the cast removed on his foot in Birmingham, Alabama, signaling a new stage in his recovery, though he cautioned he may also need additional neck surgery due to complications stemming from his multiple injuries.
WWE Contract Non-Renewal Amid Recovery
In a candid statement, Ridge Holland confirmed that WWE will not be renewing his contract, which officially expires on November 14, 2025. While WWE will continue to cover his rehab costs—an obligation since the injury occurred during a WWE-TNA crossover event—his guaranteed pay will end with the contract. Holland expressed frustration at this decision, as he faces at least six months off work while supporting a family of five[2][3][4][7].
“It’s quite frustrating to say the least as I cannot work for another six months due to the aforementioned injury, with a family of five to support,” Holland wrote on social media. “My career with WWE has been blighted by misfortune but I’m still thankful and grateful for the opportunity and experience.”[4]
Backstage Reaction: Disappointment Over WWE’s Handling
Sources close to WWE have indicated backstage disappointment over how WWE managed Holland’s injury and subsequent contract situation. One veteran talent remarked that such treatment would have been unlikely before the pandemic reshaped WWE’s business and talent relations.
According to insiders, Holland had accepted a reduced contract extension in 2024 after his original main roster deal expired. His participation in the TNA crossover event—which led to his injury—did not warrant additional pay, adding to the perceived harshness of WWE’s decision not to renew his deal while he is incapacitated[7].
Career Overview and Future Plans
Ridge Holland, real name Luke Menzies, debuted with WWE in 2018 but encountered numerous setbacks due to injuries. Despite showing promise as part of The Brawling Brutes faction alongside Sheamus and Pete Dunne (now Butch), his momentum was repeatedly stalled.
After learning of his WWE exit, Holland has turned his focus to recovery and future career options outside active wrestling. He announced plans to launch an online coaching business during his rehab, signaling a shift toward a new phase in his professional life.
“I’m unsure what lies ahead of me in terms of wrestling but going forward I will be working hard to heal up and in that time I will be launching my own online coaching business… so stay tuned,” Holland said[3][4].
What This Means for WWE and Fans
Holland’s departure reflects ongoing challenges WWE faces managing talent injuries and contract renewals, especially amid the company’s evolving financial and creative strategies post-pandemic. WWE fans have expressed sympathy for Holland, noting his tough luck and fighting spirit.
According to a wrestling insider, “Ridge Holland’s situation highlights some uncomfortable truths about the business side of wrestling today—where talented performers can be sidelined and cut loose despite years of dedication when injuries strike at the wrong time.”[7]
Summary
- Ridge Holland suffered a Lisfranc foot injury in September 2025 during TNA tapings.
- He underwent foot surgery on October 3 and faces an upcoming cast removal in Alabama.
- Holland has revealed possible need for neck surgery due to multiple injuries.
- WWE will not renew his contract expiring November 14, but will cover rehab costs.
- Holland expressed frustration but remains grateful and plans to start an online coaching business.
- Backstage reports indicate disappointment about WWE’s handling of his injury and contract.
- Holland’s story underscores ongoing wrestling industry challenges with injured talent.
This developing situation will be closely followed by wrestling news outlets and fans alike as Ridge Holland navigates his recovery and next career steps outside WWE.