Sports
Wrestler Ridge Holland Launches Fundraiser After WWE Release
Orlando, FL – Former WWE star Ridge Holland, whose real name is Luke Menzies, has turned to crowdfunding after being released from his contract amid ongoing injury recovery. Holland took to social media to express his struggle with financial insecurity following his departure from WWE.
Holland, 34, revealed that his contract would not be renewed as of November 14. After publicly criticizing WWE for not providing sufficient support during his injury, he received an early release from the company. Fans and fellow wrestlers have since rallied to support him through a GoFundMe campaign aimed at raising $60,000 to help with living expenses and medical costs.
The campaign has begun gaining traction, with donations reaching over $4,000 already. Notable contributions include a monthly pledge of $1,000 from current WWE star Chelsea Green, as well as one-time donations of $1,000 each from Nick Jackson of The Young Bucks and Kyle Fletcher, AEW’s TNT Champion.
In his social media posts, Holland expressed feelings of abandonment by WWE, mentioning that he cannot currently pay his mortgage. “They hung me out to dry,” he commented, reflecting the frustration many fans share regarding WWE’s treatment of injured talent.
Holland began his career with WWE in 2018, rising to the main roster in 2021 as part of the Brawling Brutes faction, led by Sheamus. His recent injuries have forced him back to the developmental “NXT” brand, where he reportedly faced a pay cut more in line with that of other developmental wrestlers.
As the GoFundMe campaign continues to grow, it highlights the financial struggles wrestlers often face after their contracts end, particularly when injuries are involved. Holland’s situation has generated a strong outpouring of support from the wrestling community, emphasizing their united front in times of crisis.
