The fallout from Ridge Holland’s release by WWE continues to ripple through the wrestling world, with the controversy now extending beyond Holland himself and into the locker room. After the former WWE Superstar launched a GoFundMe campaign to help his family cope with mounting medical and living expenses following his abrupt termination, several high-profile wrestlers from both WWE and AEW stepped forward to donate. But as the fundraiser gained traction, reports suggest WWE may have quietly instructed its talent to distance themselves from the campaign—sparking fresh debate about the company’s handling of injured athletes and its influence over its roster.
Holland’s Injury and Sudden Release
Ridge Holland, whose real name is Luke Menzies, was released by WWE in mid-October, with his contract officially ending on November 14. The decision came while Holland was sidelined with a Lisfranc foot injury sustained while representing WWE at a TNA taping in September. The injury is severe enough to keep him out of action until at least 2026, and there are concerns he may also require neck fusion surgery in the near future.
Despite being injured on the job, Holland was classified as a 1099 contractor, meaning he is not eligible for workers’ compensation, sick leave, or any financial support from WWE beyond his medical expenses. The GoFundMe campaign was launched to help cover the family’s basic needs—housing, food, bills, and travel to medical appointments—while Holland focuses on recovery.
GoFundMe Sparks Industry-Wide Support
The campaign quickly gained attention, with donations pouring in from both WWE and AEW talent. Among those who contributed were current WWE Superstar Chelsea Green, Omos, Kyle Fletcher (AEW), and Nick Jackson (AEW). Green even shared the GoFundMe link on her social media, but the post was later deleted. Omos also donated publicly, using his wrestling name, while Fletcher and Jackson chose varying levels of anonymity.
According to Wrestling Observer Radio, at least five recognizable names from both companies have donated, and their involvement has not gone unnoticed. “Chelsea Green did a tweet—I believe it was linking the GoFundMe—which she then deleted,” said Dave Meltzer. “I cannot imagine that WWE didn’t [tell her to]. Or somebody from there didn’t, because it’s like the last thing they want is their own talent promoting it.”
WWE’s Alleged Backstage Pressure
The timing of Green’s deleted post and the sudden silence from other WWE talent has led to speculation that the company may have instructed its roster to back off the campaign. While WWE has not issued an official statement, sources close to the situation suggest that management was uncomfortable with the optics of its current stars publicly supporting a former employee who was critical of the company.
“WWE doesn’t want this to become a PR issue,” said a WWE insider who spoke on condition of anonymity. “They’re worried about setting a precedent where injured talent can publicly call out the company and then get financial support from their peers. It could open the door for more scrutiny of how they handle contract terminations and medical support.”
The insider added that while there was no formal directive sent to the roster, several talent were approached by management and encouraged to “avoid commenting on the situation” or “refrain from sharing the GoFundMe link.”
Industry Reaction and Ethical Questions
The controversy has sparked a broader conversation about the responsibilities of wrestling companies to their injured talent. Many fans and industry insiders have criticized WWE for releasing Holland while he was still recovering from a serious injury, especially given his contractor status and lack of financial safety net.
“Ridge Holland was injured representing WWE, and now he’s being left to fend for himself,” said a veteran wrestling agent who has worked with both WWE and AEW. “It’s not just about the money—it’s about the message it sends to other wrestlers. If you get hurt, you’re on your own.”
The involvement of AEW talent has also drawn attention, with some praising their willingness to support a colleague across company lines. “It shows that there’s still a sense of brotherhood in this business,” said the agent. “But it also highlights the differences in how companies treat their talent.”
Holland’s Response and Ongoing Recovery
Ridge Holland has been vocal about his situation, expressing frustration with WWE’s handling of his release and his financial uncertainty. In a recent video addressing the controversy, Holland said he felt “hung out to dry” by the company and was unsure how he would pay his mortgage or support his family during his recovery.
“I’ve always given my all for WWE, and now I’m facing months of recovery with no income and no support,” Holland said. “I’m grateful for everyone who has donated and shown support, but I never thought I’d be in this position.”
The GoFundMe campaign has raised tens of thousands of dollars, but the goal remains $60,000 to cover the family’s expenses through Holland’s recovery. Holland is expected to undergo another surgery in March, with the possibility of neck surgery as early as this month.
What’s Next for Holland and WWE?
As the controversy continues to unfold, questions remain about how WWE will address the criticism and whether the company will reconsider its approach to injured talent. For now, Holland’s focus is on his recovery and providing for his family, while the wrestling world watches closely to see how the situation develops.
“WWE has a lot of power, but they can’t control the goodwill of the wrestling community,” said the veteran agent. “Ridge Holland’s story is a reminder that behind the glitz and glamour, there are real people with real struggles.”
For fans and industry insiders alike, the Ridge Holland saga is a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by professional wrestlers—and the importance of standing together in times of need.