For any WWE Superstar, being the 30th and final entrant into a Royal Rumble match is a win in and of itself. After all, the #30 spot is mathematically the best position to be in and has produced winners including John Cena, Triple H, The Undertaker, and Cody Rhodes. But we’re not here to talk about the winners.

While #30 has produced plenty of winners, entering last is far from a guaranteed Rumble victory. Over the decades, we’ve seen plenty of #30 entrants be eliminated as quickly as they entered.

Here are some Superstars who squandered their coveted spot as the #30 entrant. 

The Warlord (1992)

Until Santino Marella broke the record in 2009, the Warlord’s name was synonymous with having the shortest stint in a Royal Rumble with 2 seconds at the 1989 Rumble. Well two years later, the Warlord had better luck, but still had an abysmal performance. Lasting 1:43, Warlord scored no eliminations in the 1991 Rumble before being eliminated for the third time in his career by Hulk Hogan. 

Adam Bomb (1994)

When Adam Bomb made his way to the ring as part of the 1994 Royal Rumble, Vince McMahon on commentary declared “ADAM BOMB IS GOING TO WIN THE ROYAL RUMBLE!” Now mind you, the match still had Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, and Lex Luger all in the bout.

As you’ve figured out by now, Bomb didn’t live up to McMahon’s declaration as he was flattened and thrown out by the bigger stars in 4:55.

Duke ‘The Dumpster’ Droese (1996)

We can’t help but wonder what the fans in Fresno’s Selland Arena felt when Duke Droese was the final participant in the 1996 Royal Rumble match. Seriously, did a single person think it’d be Bret Hart Vs ‘The Dumpster’ at WrestleMania 12?

Droese eliminated nobody before being thrown out by Diesel and Kama after 1:10. 

Vader (1998)

Once a top star of Japan and WCW, Vader’s WWF run did not do the superheavyweight justice. Never was that more evident than the 1998 Royal Rumble match, in which Vader lasted just 2:15.

His sole elimination saw Vader throw out comedy cameo The Honky Tonk Man, making it clear that the powerhouse was not meant to be taken seriously as a possible winner.

Chyna (1999)

The first woman to enter a Royal Rumble match, Chyna did score a single elimination in the 1999 match, which is more than what most people on this list can boast.

But at 35 seconds, it felt like WWE wanted Chyna out of the match as quickly as she came in. 

Booker T (2002)

Perhaps the biggest name who joined WWF after WCW’s 2001 demise, Booker T had a rough start in the promotion. While he was Vince McMahon’s pick in the 2002 Rumble match, Booker would last just 33 seconds before being tossed out. It’d be a long time before the talented wrestler would be treated as a main eventer. 

Rey Mysterio (2014)

One of wrestling’s most beloved heroes, Rey Mysterio’s entrance as the #30 entrant in 2014 was quite a shock to behold.

Simply put, fans wanted Daniel Bryan, and Rey’s arrival snuffed out their last hope. Rey lasted 2:10 and scored 0 eliminations, making his role seem even more egregious. 

Dolph Ziggler (2018)

After surrending his newly-won U.S. title in late 2017, fans were curious as to what was to come for Dolph Ziggler. For months, Ziggler was nowhere to be seen, until he returned to programming as the #30 entrant in the 2018 Men’s Rumble match.

Unfortunately for the Show-Off, his return was entirely anti-climactic, and he would be eliminated in 2:01 by Finn Balor. Ziggler’s only elimination would see him toss out the cameoing Goldust, who lasted longer in the match than Dolph himself. 

Nia Jax (Men’s 2019)

Nobody expected R-Truth, the original #30 entrant in the 2019 Men’s Rumble to win, but the decision to replace him with Nia Jax was entirely bizarre.

The following sequence which saw a bunch of male Superstars hit their finishers on Jax wouldn’t help matters either, especially as some fans online seemed too eager to watch her get ganged up on. Jax would eliminate Mustafa Ali before being dumped out herself at 3:09. 

Nia Jax (Women’s 2023)

Four years on from her bizarre entry into the Men’s Royal Rumble, Nia Jax made a surprise return to WWE during the 2023 Women’s Rumble.

Her big return is probably best remembered for WWE displaying graphics with her name over ten seconds before her return. Jax eliminated nobody in her 1:57 stint in the match. 

WWE released Dolph Ziggler in September 2023, along with a list of talented performers. The former World Champion has found other things to do, but he still has stories about his time in WWE.

Now going as Nic Nemeth, he recounted WWE’s reaction to his fabricated tweet about a minor injury, noting the pressure to retract his statement. Despite the initial tension. What made this interesting was that Hugh Jackman was involved.

WWE Threatened To Fire Dolph Ziggler For Working An Angle

During a recent episode of Busted Open Radio, the former Dolph Ziggler detailed a confrontation with WWE after a tweet he posted after Hugh Jackman’s appearance on WWE RAW. He that he alluded to having a fractured jaw, a fabrication of a minor injury to align with the storyline. He had so much buzz wound it, that he just couldn’t resist.

Nic Nemeth recounted, “I said, ‘I have to go for x-rays. I may have a slight fractured jaw’ and by the time the next morning came around, I was being threatened with being fired from WWE because I had lied and TMZ was calling them to check on it and I go, ‘I’m just trying to protect the storyline.’ I said, ‘I didn’t say Hugh Jackman put me in a hospital or I’m having a heart attack. I was like, oh, there’s a chance there’s a hairline fracture and I’m gonna get x-rays to keep it vague’, because it’s wrestling.”

Things certainly took a turn when a very upset call came from WWE, because TMZ was sniffing around the kayfabe story. After WWE’s pressure to retract his statement, Ziggler eventually complied, but he was just protecting the business with his tweet.

I was so excited. It all worked out and Broski was on a tear, I was so excited about it, I go, ‘Let me add a little extra to it’ and then the second-in-command was like, ‘I don’t wanna have to fire you but you’re gonna have to recant and take this down…’”

“Meanwhile, cut to two years later or the rest of WWE’s existence, they’d be begging for that kind of publicity but whatever and I said it in a nice way but I took it down but, for the next couple of weeks, I wore mouthguards and did Miz’s punch in the face gimmick that he did for a month or whatever… and it was really, really fun. I think I had matches with Miz anyway or Broski and it was like, the whole thing was not to not punch me in the face because my jaw might be broken and it was the best. That stuff makes it so much fun on the weekends.

Dolph Ziggler After WWE

Nic Nemeth is now working for TNA Wrestling and NJPW. He is also appearing on Busted Open Radio as a co-host, and that is a position he fits into very well.

Nemeth’s stand-up comedy goals are still going as well. He opened up for Mick Foley on his recent comedy tour. That is a profession and side hustle that the Show-Off has been perfecting for years now.

SEScoops will have even more coverage of this story and so much more in the pro wrestling world. You never know what will break next, but we will be here with all the headlines you need.

Dolph Ziggler was one of the more surprising releases that WWE handed down in September 2023. Since then, he has appeared for NJPW and made his TNA Wrestling debut as well. It seems that he wanted to get started on his life after WWE prior to his release, because he asked WWE to let him go in the past.

Nic Nemeth’s WWE Release

Now going as Nic Nemeth, he has garnered attention post his WWE departure with his ventures in the pro wrestling realm.

Nemeth showed up during NJPW during last month’s Wrestle Kingdom event, where he has since participated in various matches. Additionally, he has begun working in TNA Wrestling following his promotional debut at the Hard to Kill pay-per-view event.

Ziggler was let go by WWE alongside several other wrestlers due to budget cuts after the sale to Endeavor. He had been with WWE since 2004, predominantly featured as an upper-mid card talent, and held the Intercontinental and United States Titles multiple times.

During a conversation with Denise Salcedo, Nemeth revealed that he had requested his release from WWE several times with the intention of returning, but WWE consistently refused, citing their need for him.

“It would be different if I was hobbling around or if I didn’t get reactions or wasn’t good at my job. I would be happy to take a backseat and help people out. But I’m sitting around six days a week, not working, basically in the prime of my career. So let’s get going. And so I said, ‘How about this? How about I leave for six months? How about I leave for a year?’ How about I get the hell out of here?’ But even a couple of years ago, when they said yes, the next Sunday, I’d get a phone call saying, ‘Hey, we need you.’ It’s great.”

Nemeth also reminisced about sending an email to WWE officials, including Vince McMahon, expressing his heartfelt thoughts about his situation. In the email, he outlined both positives and negatives of how he felt. McMahon was the sole individual to acknowledge the message and expressed a desire to have a conversation. Approximately two weeks after this email exchange transpired, Nemeth received his release from the company.

What’s Next

Nic Nemeth is still taking stand-up comedy dates, and he’s doing his thing in TNA Wrestling. At this time, we haven’t heard about him coming into AEW, but you never know what the future will hold for the former Dolph Ziggler.

SEScoops will keep our eye on this story for more developments.

WWE released a lot of talent in September, and Dolph Ziggler’s name was arguably the most surprising one. Now the former World Champion is making his own way through the pro wrestling world, as he has popped up for both TNA Wrestling and NJPW so far. There were a lot of options on the table for Nic Nemeth.

Nic Nemeth Had Options

The former Dolph Ziggler has garnered attention in recent weeks by appearing for NJPW and, most recently, TNA, marking a nearly 20-year tenure in WWE. One thing is very clear, he is getting priority booking wherever he goes.

During a conversation on TNA’s Instagram after Hard To Kill, Nemeth disclosed that numerous individuals contacted him post his release, expressing their desire to have him in their company.

Nic Nemeth reflected on the past three, four, five, six months, contemplating how to prolong his legacy and embark on a distinct chapter with a new mindset and persona. 

He expressed feeling like a wanted individual, recounting the multitude of people who reached out to him after his departure from his previous job. These messages weren’t mere expressions of thanks or congratulations, but rather indications of a significant level of interest and desire for his involvement.

A bunch of people reached out instantly and said, ‘We want you here.’ I go, man, it is great to feel that. I’m very fortunate and lucky that people [said], ‘How can we get you? What can we do?’ I was like, I’m kind of a wanted man, it got me more excited, like I’m back in, okay. I was like, ‘I could show up and be a hired gun here. I could take this guy out, and we could go run. I’m figuring out, where could we go, and I watched TNA go to IMPACT and become TNA in this special moment at Hard To Kill, where this is a coming-out party for TNA again. I go, that could be a perfect fit. Hopefully, I can back it up in the ring, other than just talking about it and showing up.

Dolph Ziggler’s Next Moves in Pro Wrestling

Many fans expected Nic to arrive in AEW eventually, because Ryan Nemeth, his brother, is on Tony Khan’s roster. He was also telling Nic for a decade that he should leave WWE. That has not happened yet, but at this rate, nothing would surprise us.

TNA Wrestling delivered on a big surprise at the end of Hard to Kill with Nemeth, and he has already wrestled for the company. Someone like Nic Nemeth obviously has options on the table.

Dolph Ziggler was released from WWE in September, but Nic Nemeth is already in NJPW. He may pop up in any number of places at this point, and his brother, Ryan Nemeth, is more than happy to see it happen.

Ryan Nemeth is Excited About Nic Nemeth’s New-Found Freedom

“I’m very excited about it,” Ryan Nemeth said on Busted Open Radio. He continued to say that he had a flashback to when that question is asked a question about a match, and he only has, “Well, you’ll have to wait and see,” to say. Right now, Nemeth can’t contain his excitement about getting to team with his brother.

It also turns out that Ryan has told his brother, the former Dolph Ziggler, to leave WWE for a very long time now.

“I can’t wait. Is there something or isn’t there? I’ve been telling him to leave WWE for like over a decade now. I think it’s always great to leave and reinvent yourself or leave and just do something else. “

Ryan highlighted the advantages of departing from WWE to embrace reinvention and explore diverse creative paths. The prospect of wrestling alongside his brother and the creation of fresh content is also on the horizon. The Nemeth Brothers are ready for this new career chapter, with Ryan proclaiming, “Nemeth Bros forever, baby.”

Ryan Nemeth continued to say that he is excited to team with his brother, Nic, and also do more comedy shows with him. He went on to plug the Wanted Man project, and there is more to come.

“I’m psyched to tag with him, I’m psyched to do more comedy shows with him. We just shot Wanted Man, which is incredible and getting a huge positive response to launch his new character. We have 3 million views on social platforms. I’m so psyched about the positive response. Some horror websites are doing write ups on it. That kind of stuff is what I’m psyched about and you can’t do that kind of stuff when one of you is trapped in a very intense WWE schedule. I’m very excited to start wrestling with him, doing events with him, and shooting more stuff. Nemeth Bros forever, baby.”

Nic Nemeth After WWE

Nic Nemeth made very good money in WWE for a long time. He also made the kind of money that Vince McMahon paid people that he didn’t want to leave. He is financially comfortable and can pick his own projects. That could add up to result in a lot of future projects for the Nemeth Brothers.

Some were surprised by Dolph Ziggler’s WWE release, but he is not going to be hard to find with everything he seems to have on deck.

Nic Nemeth is now a “Wanted Man” after now officially being a free agent. The former Dolph Ziggler was one of several releases by WWE back in September, and he kicked 2024 off with a surprise appearance at Wrestle Kingdom.

However, Nemeth’s impending exit was something he actually fully expected and even inquired about.

Speaking on Busted Open Radio, Nemeth touched upon how his leave felt like a long time coming.

“I was planning for half of this entire last contract going, ‘I know at some point, I’m being paid way too much to sit at home so I’m gonna have to get out of here.’ I always wanted to be ready to go, just in case they said, ‘I know you’ve been doing 90-second matches, can you do 30 minutes with The Undertaker?’ You’re damn right I can. I was ready to go anyway.

“I just wanted to have every option available. It wasn’t out of the blue. I had sent emails to the boss over the last few months saying, ‘I have to move on to somewhere else, can you let me do this?’ Eventually, without exact back and forth, that’s how it worked out.”

Nemeth has plenty to look forward to as free agency is a new beginning for him. His appearance at Wrestle Kingdom even surprised talent backstage at NJPW, but Nemeth will be keeping busy overseas in the wrestling realm as he’ll be making appearances in the United Kingdom and Australia.

Since his release, Nemeth also has been doing stand-up appearances with his younger brother Ryan.

Please credit Busted Open Radio and h/t to Fightful for the transcription.

Nick Nemeth (WWE legend Dolph Ziggler) has started the new year in a big way with a surprise appearance at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom and a slick-looking trailer introducing a new persona, the ‘Wanted Man’ Nic Nemeth.

Nemeth, one of the top free agents in all of pro wrestling, introduces his persona in creative fashion. He’s depicted in the back of a police car before a zombies attack occurs.

The former World Champions fights them off and blows up the building as ‘Wanted’ posters with his face on it adorn the walls. Nemeth shows off his acting chops in the trailer, which featured an appearance from a rubber chicken (a nod to his stand-up comedy work) and a zombie getting his head kicked off at one of the worst ‘Superkick Parties’ ever.

The song featured in the video clip is the self-titled ‘Wanted Man’ by the band Downstait. The short was executively produced by Nic Nemeth, Ryan Nemeth & Jake Hartmann, and written by Ryan Nemeth & Maggie Levin.

Nic Nemeth keeps his options open 

Nemeth has had a successful WWE career which spanned 19 years and he has had multiple accolades. Unfortunately, Nemeth’s time in WWE came to an end when he was part of the first wave of releases after the launch of TKO Group Holdings. 

Back in November, Nic Nemeth decided to get back to comedy and share the stage with his brother Ryan, something that they have done on multiple occasions in front of sold-out venues. They went on to host a special two-show Hunkamania tour. Now, months after his shocking release from WWE, Nemeth has arrived in New Japan Pro Wrestling. 

With his decorated WWE career in the rearview mirror, Nemeth, a future Hall of Famer has doors of opportunities wide open with top promotions such as NJPW, AEW, TNA as well as the indies chasing his signature. This is something the ‘Wanted Man’ video implies. 

We will have to wait and see which company lands the signing of Nic Nemeth.

WWE released a lot of Superstars in September 2023, and Doph Ziggler’s name was arguably the most shocking to make the list. Although Ziggler stayed silent about his next move in pro wrestling, fans found out what he had in store at NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 18 event.

Dolph Ziggler’s NJPW Debut

Nic Nemeth, also known as Dolph Ziggler from his long WWE run, made a significant impression with his brother Ryan Nemeth during their debut in New Japan Pro Wrestling at Wrestle Kingdom 18. 

Their entrance before the Winner Take All IWGP & NJPW Strong Tag Team Title Match caught everyone by surprise, not only astonishing the audience but also creating a buzz of excitement backstage among fellow wrestlers.

As the Nemeth brothers took front-row seats to witness the highly anticipated showdown, their unannounced presence backstage brought shock from both fans and the pro wrestling world.

.@HEELZiggler appears in NJPW.

Sign up Now & Stay tuned to https://t.co/CeQLGjTmZ5#njwk18 #NJPW #njpwworld pic.twitter.com/g35eSbTB13

— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2024

Internal Reaction Nic Nemeth’s NJPW Debut

Cassidy Haynes of Bodyslam.net provided an interesting note about Nic Nemeth’s appearance at Wrestle Kingdom. It was said that this was a surprise backstage at the Tokyo Dome as well.

Sources backstage at NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 18 relayed to me that Nic Nemeth’s appearance was just as much a surprise backstage as it was for everyone else. One source stated, “Where the f*ck was he hiding?” Another source added, “Never saw him or anything until he went out.”

The Wrestle Kingdom 18 event marked a new chapter for the Nemeths, leaving an indelible impression with their unexpected and strategic debut in the world of New Japan Pro Wrestling.

Ryan Nemeth in AEW

Ryan Nemeth has appeared for AEW over the past few years, with infrequent appearences in recent months. His most recent match took place on the November 4th episode of ROH on HonorClub, where he, along with Peter Avalon, lost an eight-man tag team match. 

Ryan Nemeth was also a regular participant on Being the Elite, a show that concluded late last year. At this time, it appears that his name has a lot more hype in NJPW after Wrestle Kingdom 18. 

Former WWE Superstar Nic Nemeth caused quite a stir when he made his debut for New Japan Pro Wrestling at Wrestle Kingdom 18. 

Nemeth, best known to wrestling fans as Dolph Ziggler, was dressed to impress as he appeared in front of the crowd in the Tokyo Dome. The former Superstar was accompanied by his brother and AEW star Ryan Nemeth. 

.@HEELZiggler appears in NJPW.

Sign up Now & Stay tuned to https://t.co/CeQLGjTmZ5#njwk18 #NJPW #njpwworld pic.twitter.com/g35eSbTB13

— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2024

Nemeth’s Appearance Kept A Surprise

According to Cassidy Haynes of BodySlam.net, Nemeth’s presence was kept a secret from virtually everybody. Two sources who were backstage at the Tokyo Dome relayed that Nemeth was not in public view before he appeared on the broadcast and most of the wrestlers on the card found out along with the fans watching at home around the world.

Nemeth and Finlay brawled backstage, all but guaranteeing that this was more than just a cameo:

Acknowledging he doesn’t even go here, Nic Nemeth says he has pride for the IWGP Global Title…while he understands using “questionable” tactics to win, what Finley did was disgraceful. If given the opportunity to wrestle for it and win it, he will make it the pinnacle #njwk18 pic.twitter.com/uJ1ojAceWE

— Issa ?????? – PWI ? Contributor (@IssitaMarie) January 4, 2024

Nemeth’s arrival in New Japan comes months after his surprising release from WWE in September of 2023. The first wave of releases after the launch of TKO Group Holdings, Nemeth was cut alongside Mustafa Ali, Shelton Benjamin, Matt Riddle, Emma, Riddick Moss, Aliyah, and other Superstars. 

What’s Next? 

Nemeth watched on as David Finlay faced Jon Moxley and Will Ospreay to crown the first IWGP Global Champion. After the match, Finlay got in the face of Nemeth, who had some choice words for the new champion. The two would brawl at ringside. 

.@THEdavidfinlay × @HEELZiggler "Next Battle?"

Sign up Now & Stay tuned to https://t.co/CeQLGjTmZ5#njwk18 #NJPW #njpwworld pic.twitter.com/AO2znYwWxl

— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2024

This post-match incident is seemingly setting Nemeth up as a future challenger for the IWGP Global Championship. It’s possible that the match could come as soon as NJPW Battle in the Valley which will take place on January 13. 

NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 18 also saw the crowning of the second-ever NJPW World TV Champion. Click here to find out more. 

Four days before Christmas, several former WWE stars will get the gift of free agency. On Friday, their 90 day non-compete contracts will be up.

In September, WWE cut over 20 wrestlers. That list included Mustafa Ali, Dolph Ziggler, Shelton Benjamin, and Emma.  

The wrestling world rallied around all of the athletes who lost their jobs, including John Cena, who leant support to longtime friend Dolph Ziggler:

One thousand five hundred and fifty four matches. @HEELZiggler #Respect

— John Cena (@JohnCena) September 21, 2023

Plans for free agents released by WWE

So, what’s next for these former WWE Superstars? Here’s a list of what we know so far:

Dolph Ziggler:

Ziggler had been with the company for nearly two decades and competed in 1.554 matches. He (Nic Nemeth) has been doing comedy shows with his brother, Ryan Nemeth. 

He is rumored to be joining his brother in AEW. On Jan. 6, 2024, he will wrestle in Puerto Rico against Ray Gonzalez. 

Mustafa Ali

Ali posted on social media last Friday night a clip that said 12/21/23 with music playing in the background. He captioned it “12/21 12:21 PM EST.” 

The tease lead up to the announcement of the 2024 Mustafa Ali World Tour:

‘Top Dolla’ AJ Francis

On Thursday, the former “Top Dolla” AJ Francis posted “Thank you WWE. Tomorrow begins the Dolla Era. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

Thank You @WWE ??
Tomorrow begins the Dolla Era ?

Don’t Say I Didn’t Warn You… pic.twitter.com/xyp15z8hm2

— A.J. FRANCI$ ? (@AJFrancis410) December 20, 2023

At midnight on December 21, his new single dropped. He performed the song at Busted Open’s holiday party. He is also scheduled to wrestle on January 6 for Coastal Championship Wrestling. On January 26, he’s set to make his GCW return at “Look At Me”. 

WE OUT$IDEEEEE @SIRIUSXM

S/o @BustedOpenRadio for having me perform my new single DROPPING AT MIDNIGHT at their Holiday Party! ?? pic.twitter.com/Z28lmxxQzr

— A.J. FRANCI$ ? (@AJFrancis410) December 21, 2023

Mansoor

Mansoor and the former Mace, now known as Mason Madden, are hitting the indies as MxM. They’ve been announced for EFFY’s Big Gay Brunch and GCW in January. On December 10, they showed up at Deadlock Pro Wrestling’s 2nd Anniversary Show to say they were there “until the wheels fall off.” Their first match will be against West Coast Wrecking Crew on January 20. They are also lining up singles matches. 

Surprise, motherfuckers @deadlockpro pic.twitter.com/od6AJdeOkt

— Mansoor (@suavemansoor) December 11, 2023

Tenille Dashwood & Riddick Moss

Tenille Dashwood posted a video of herself and fiancé Riddick Moss with the caption “Day 89 mood. See y’all tomorrow!” Moss yells “freedom!” at the end of the video. 

Day 89 mood ? see y’all tomorrow! pic.twitter.com/CaZedLHrcG

— Tenille Dashwood (@TenilleDashwood) December 20, 2023

The couple also has a travel show launching on YouTube on Friday. 

We’re just ONE WEEK away from the launch of our new show, and we picked a name! We can’t wait to share our crazy travel adventures with all of you, so make sure you subscribe to the YouTube channel (link in bio) and look for the first episode on December 21! The only question… pic.twitter.com/VZJvBqiqHb

— Tenille Dashwood (@TenilleDashwood) December 14, 2023

We at SEScoops wish everyone the best moving forward. 

Former WWE Superstar Nic Nemeth may be All-Elite soon enough if those working within AEW have their way. 

Nemeth was released from WWE in September of this year, ending his nearly two-decade career with the Sports Entertainment juggernaut. Nemeth is best known for his time as Dolph Ziggler and is a two-time former World Heavyweight Champion and one-time WWE NXT Champion. The Show-Off was arguably the biggest name cut from WWE during the September releases. 

Nic Nemeth is All-Elite?

Next week, Nemeth’s 90-day non-compete clause will expire and he will be free to work and sign with any promotion that wants him. Sources in AEW who spoke to WrestlePurists have stated that there is a push within the promotion for Nemeth to be signed when the time is right. There have already been multiple creative pitches being drawn up for Nemeth. One idea would see the Show-Off paired with fellow WWE alum CJ Perry. Perry and Nemeth had an on-screen romance in 2015 during which Nemeth would feud with Perry’s real-life husband Rusev (now AEW’s Miro.)

What’s Next for Nic Nemeth?

We don’t know for certain if Nemeth will join AEW but the former WWE World Champion isn’t struggling to find work outside of WWE. The former Ziggler has been announced for WWC’s Euphoria show which will take place on January 20. Nemeth will compete against Ray González at the event. Nemeth will also be part of the MCW Fan Jam convention that is set to take place on February 4. Fellow WWE alum Matt Riddle has also been announced. 

In September, WWE released several talents, and that came as a big surprise. WWE fired over 100 people from their corporate headquarters, right after the TKO Group Holdings deal closed, and then they axed several members of their roster.

The NXT Superstars who were fired during that list of releases has already seen their non-compete clauses run out. NXT Superstars only have a 30-day wait, but main roster talent must wait even longer.

Although WWE released all of those Superstars at once, they saved Matt Riddle on his own the next day. He had a laundry list of infractions, personal drama, and other backstage controversies with WWE; so, he burned his last bridges and nobody could protect him from a release this time around. The Original Bro will be among those names that will enter the free agent market this week.

As of next week, around December 21st, those released WWE Superstars will be officially free agents. Their 90-day non-compete clauses are going to expire, leaving a lot of possibilities in the pro wrestling world. 

Those former WWE Superstars will officially become free agents, granting them the freedom to work with any organization. The list of wrestlers includes Mustafa Ali, Aliyah, Shelton Benjamin, Rick Boogs, Emma, Dana Brooke, Dabbo-Kato, Elias, Quincy Elliot, Mace, Mansoor, Riddick Moss, Matt Riddle, Shanky, Top Dolla, and Dolph Ziggler.

We previously reported that Dolph Ziggler already has a pro wrestling gig announced. Odds are, his schedule will be as busy as he wants it to be. 

AEW is also always a part of the conversation whenever non-compete clauses start to expire. It stands to reason that Bryan Danielson would pull to have Tony Khan sign Mustafa Ali, someone he also pulled to work with during his final run in WWE.

We will have to see where all of those former WWE Superstars appear next. It could result in some big headlines in the not too distant future.

WWE fired over 100 employees for their corporate offices right after their TKO Group Holdings deal went through. That was followed by a string of roster releases, and Dolph Ziggler’s name was a part of that list. Now, we know where the Show-Off will land next.

While Dolph Ziggler is currently involved in comedy shows, as Mick Foley’s opening act on the road, that’s not the sole focus of his post-WWE activities. The official announcement reveals that Dolph Ziggler is set to join the World Wrestling Council in Puerto Rico.

As reported by Lucha Libre Online, Ziggler will engage in a match against Puerto Rican wrestling veteran Ray Gonzalez at the promotion’s annual Euphoria event on January 6th, 2024. Ziggler will be using his real name, Nic Nemeth, for this upcoming bout.

The two-time World Heavyweight Champion in WWE, The Most Wanted Man, Nic Nemeth, will have his first fight in Puerto Rico. His selected opponent, The Greatest of all time in Puerto Rico, Ray González.

Will Mr. Rayting accept the challenge? WWC presents Three Kings Day, on Saturday, January 6 at 6:00 pm at the Mayagüez Sports and Recreation Palace. Euphoria, on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 8:00 pm at Pepín Cestero in Bayamón. Tickets are on sale at Rayting Mini Market at the Bo. Mameyal in Dorado. If you buy your ticket at Rayting Mini Market you get a photo with Ray González 

Additionally, Dolph Ziggler’s participation in MCW Fan Jam 2 in February next year has been confirmed. The duration until The Showoff returns to a major pro wrestling promotion remains uncertain, but 2024 appears to be a significant year for the former WWE Superstar.

El dos veces World Heavyweight Champion en la WWE, The Most Wanted Man, Nic Nemeth, tendrá su primera lucha en Puerto Rico. Su oponente seleccionado, El Más Grande de todos los tiempos en Puerto Rico, Ray González. ¿Aceptará el reto Mr. Rayting? 👀

WWC presenta Día de Reyes, el… pic.twitter.com/tnkDvjrEm9

— Lucha Libre Online (@luchalibreonlin) December 10, 2023

Dolph Ziggler is recognized for his skills in the wrestling ring during his tenure with WWE, faced a release from the company in September. It looks like he’s not going to let that get him down at all.

We will have to see what Dolph Ziggler does next. His WWE non-compete clause isn’t up yet, but it seems that he will do what he wants to at this point in his career.

Where do you think Dolph Ziggler will end up next? Do you believe he is on his way to AEW? Let us know what you think by engaging with us on social media!

Mustafa Ali crashed a VIP autograph signing for Dolph Ziggler over the weekend at a non-televised live event from Trenton, New Jersey.

The former Retribution leader has adopted a new character. He’s keeping a positive mindset, but seems unstable and is borderline delusional.

Ali’s new angle with Ziggler began a few weeks ago, when he scored a surprising win over Ziggler on Raw in less than five minutes. As seen below, he filmed a video of himself ambushing Ziggler with more of his off-putting ‘positivity.’ Ziggler wasn’t having it and had security escort Ali out of the event, which got the guests all riled up.

Mustafa Ali has a surprise for Ziggler on RAW

Meanwhile, Mustafa Ali has also planned a surprise for Dolph Ziggler on the upcoming episode of RAW. Ali has accused ‘The Showoff’ of getting more opportunities because he looked different and smiled more.

However, ahead of Monday Night RAW next week, the 36-year-old star took to Twitter to announce that he was a surprise for Dolph Ziggler. Ali also asked WWE fans to guess his surprise for The Showoff.

“HUGE!!!HUGE!!!HUGE!!!! SURPRISE for my man Deez @HEELZiggler NEXT WEEK on #WWERaw. Comment below; what do you think the SURPRISE is?!?” Mustafa Ali wrote.

WWE superstar Mustafa Ali has a nice response to a critical fan who called him worthless.

Ali has had an interesting career in WWE. He’s worked for the company for almost six years after making his debut participating in the Cruiserweight Classic. In his time with WWE, he has yet to win a championship, despite competing for the Cruiserweight, United States, and Intercontinental Championships.

Wrestling fans have called out WWE’s issues with finding decent storylines or opportunities for Ali in the past. He also requested his release from the company on Jan. 16, 2022, but it wasn’t granted. Since Triple H took over WWE as Head of Creative, Ali has seen more TV opportunities, and on the Feb. 20 episode of Monday Night Raw, he earned a win against Dolph Ziggler.

However, it hasn’t stopped some wrestling fans from criticizing his WWE career. After his win over Ziggler, a fan tweeted, “Like a bad penny. Just can’t get rid of this fucking guy. Only a penny has a small amount of value. Ali is still worthless.”

Ali responded to the tweet with positivity.

What’s Next for Mustafa Ali?

It’s unclear if WWE is allowing for Ali to have more opportunities to shine on the main roster. The win against Ziggler was his first on TV since he defeated The Miz on a Monday Night Raw episode on Oct. 31, 2022. During that time, he was working his way to challenging for the United States Championship.

It doesn’t seem like Ali will be chasing a WWE title anytime soon. The company is preparing for WrestleMania 39, with some men’s title matches, like the United States Championship, already reportedly decided on. Ali may miss out on WrestleMania this year, but WWE could still give him opportunities to build to be a contender for a title after the event.

The modern generation of wrestlers have gotten smarter with their career choices. Unlike the older generation, many of the current-era wrestlers have started thinking about their future after retirement. They have started branching out to other professions they can work in after hanging their boots. Dolph Ziggler is one such star who has found an unlikely career in stand-up comedy.

The former world champion originally started it off as a hobby but he has slowly been creeping it up. It has gotten to a point where Ziggler has taken extended periods off from WWE to headline comedy tours.

During a recent appearance on The Archive of B-Sox podcast, the 42-year-old was asked if he plans to transition to a full-time comedy career in the coming time. Ziggler explained that he doesn’t want to leave the wrestling space but slow it down with time:

You Don’t Get To Wrestle Forever: Dolph Ziggler

“It’s really fun for me to devote half of my week to that kind of stuff. You don’t get to wrestle forever. I’ve been very lucky so far. I may be here for 10 nonstop years in a row. who knows?” said Dolph Ziggler, “But I like being able to branch out and do some other things. Whether go talk politics somewhere, do an interview, do a one man show do an improv show. Do an audition for something on Broadway.

Everything that gets you on stage, get that presence and just gets the rap going and gets you smoother and comfortable. That helps you as a stand up, but it also helps you in the ring, so [it] makes me a better wrestler. So either way, it’s a win-win. But I would love in 15 years from now, I’m showing up at WWE four times a year to wrestle somebody in a big match, and the rest of the year, I’m bouncing around. Me and Mick Foley are doing a comedy show or something.”

More Originals From SEScoops:

• Kurt Angle Reflects On TNA’s Aces & Eights Storyline
• Matt Cardona’s Advice For Young Talent: “Slow The F*ck Down”
• Drew McIntyre On Vince McMahon’s Original Plans For 3MB
• Shawn Michaels On What Makes Logan Paul A Great Performer
• The Miz Compares Sami Zayn To Classic TV Series Lead

If you use any quotes from the article, please credit SEScoops with an H/t for transcription

Dolph Ziggler is aware that he can’t wrestle forever, but the Show-Off has no plans to stop anytime soon.

Ziggler debuted on WWE’s main roster in 2005 as the caddy for Kerwin White (Chavo Guerrero.)

After being repackaged as Nicky, one-fifth of the Spirit Squad the following year, Dolph would get the Ziggler name in 2008 which he has used ever since.

Retirement

Having worked on WWE’s main roster for close to two decades, Ziggler is one of WWE’s most veteran performers competing today.

During his recent appearance on Cleveland’s Morning News with Wills and Snyder, Ziggler discussed when he will hang up his boots for good (via Fightful.)

“It really depends. The healthiest people in the world, sometimes it doesn’t work. Some people have re-occurring injuries. I’ve been very lucky. Going on 18 years, no major surgeries.

“I don’t want to stop. One day I’ll have to but it sure as hell won’t be now.”

Dolph Ziggler.

“Any kind of surgery I got, it was from wrestling in college. I’ve been lucky. I don’t ever want to stop. One day I’ll have to, but it sure as hell won’t be now.”

Turning Face

After a reign as NXT Champion earlier this year, Ziggler returned from a break in June this year, attacking MVP and turning face for the first time in 2017.

In recent weeks, Ziggler feuded with Austin Theory, culminating in a match on the August 15, 2022 episode of Raw.

Theory defeated Ziggler in the match, ending their feud, and Dolph has had a handful of matches with the Judgment Day since then.

Dolph Ziggler Reveals his Current Goal in Wrestling

Dolph Ziggler has been a part of the wrestling world for a long time and he has seen many highs and lows. He has now reached the place where personal accolades do not interest him. The Show off instead is focused on making sure that he leaves the business better than when he started.

The former world champion had an interview with The Wrestling Classic. He was asked what’s left in his bucket list. Ziggler first mentioned how he had the idea to cash in his Money In The Bank contract to get a match with Shawn Michaels back in the day. However, now he is focused on helping younger talents who can pass the knowledge when their time comes:

“When it comes to now 2022 It’s just finding someone like a Theory, who’s quickly picking it up, crushing it, and be able to have some time on the weekend.” said Dolph Ziggler, “Live event matches where we don’t have to go to commercial in 90 seconds. We got 25-30 minutes, and you beat him down and you see what he can do. Then you see if he can pass that on to someone else when you’ve done.

So things like that are much more important. To be leaving the business better than when you started and actually have a meaningful impact on not just young talent, or talent the same age or even talent that are older than me. Being able to know that no matter what the win-loss record is out there. No matter what fans online say. Everyone in that locker room says ‘This is the guy I want leading my platoon, putting the company on his back, putting me over his shoulder, and passing it on to the next generation.'”

You can watch Ziggler’s full interview below:

More Originals From SEScoops:

• Johnny Gargano Reveals Promo That Inspired His Wrestling Return
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• Claudio Castagnoli Shares Memories Of Working With Brodie Lee

If you use any quotes from the article, please credit SEScoops with an H/t for transcription

Dolph Ziggler is back and in a far bigger spot than many anticipated.

The July 11 episode of WWE Raw took place inside the AT&T Center in San Antonio, TX. The show featured the return of Brock Lesnar as well as a Raw Women’s Championship match between titleholder Bianca Belair and Carmella.

The show ended with a tag team match as United States Champion Bobby Lashley teamed with Riddle to take on Money in the Bank briefcase holder Theory and Seth Rollins. Ziggler appeared and sat at ringside for the match.

He ended up playing a major factor in the finish.

Dolph Ziggler’s Role Explained

Near the end of the match, Theory rolled up Riddle and attempted to use the ropes as leverage. Dolph shoved Theory’s feet off the ropes, signaling a face turn.

As Theory looked on in shock and anger, he turned around and was nailed with the RKO from Riddle and pinned.

After the match, Dolph got inside the ring and planted Theory with a Super Kick to end WWE Raw.

Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio reports that WWE officials have put Dolph Ziggler in this big spot because the brass wants Theory to work with someone who has a ton of experience.

Dolph is a longtime veteran of the wrestling business, specifically the WWE style. Meltzer notes that WWE feels it would be beneficial for Theory to run the ropes with a guy like Dolph as much as he can as they try to build him as their next big superstar.

Dave also said that WWE hasn’t been afraid to book Theory to lose matches now as the feeling is that he won’t be negatively impacted by it due to their big plans for him down the road.

The July 11 episode of WWE Raw has come and gone but what happened after the show?

This edition of the red brand show emanated from the AT&T Center in San Antonio, TX. The episode featured the return of Brock Lesnar.

There was also a Raw Women’s Championship match between Bianca Belair and Carmella. Fans also witnessed WWE United States Champion Bobby Lashley team up with Riddle to take on Money in the Bank briefcase holder Theory and Seth Rollins.

When Cameras Stopped Rolling

Before the USA Network broadcast went off the air, Dolph Ziggler nailed Theory with a Super Kick. This was after Dolph cost Theory his tag team match against Riddle and Bobby Lashley.

Theory was caught in an RKO from Riddle and pinned. Theory had attempted to cheat by putting his feet on the ropes during a pin, but Dolph shoved him off. That caused a distraction, followed by the RKO.

There was no dark match when this week’s episode of WWE Raw went off the air. Instead, Dolph Ziggler posed for the crowd.

It’s important to note that WWE had been testing the waters with a Theory vs. Dolph program during a July 10 house show.

WWE had a digital exclusive where Carmella was interviewed after her count-out victory over Raw Women’s Champion Bianca Belair. Raw Talk was also aired after the USA Network broadcast.

A WWE tag team may be on the verge of a slight name change soon.

WWE officials aren’t afraid to make some alterations to its characters. From attire, to music, to name changes, the company will make any changes it sees fit. WWE has even reversed changes in the past.

A tag team that recently resurfaced on Raw could possibly get their own change.

Dirty Dawgs Getting Name Change?

After a brief stint on NXT, Dolph Ziggler and Robert Roode, Dirty Dawgs, returned to Monday Night Raw. They started a feud with Omos and MVP.

According to USPTO, WWE has filed a new trademark for “Dirty Dogs,” which is a slight change from what the company currently calls the team.

“Mark For: DIRTY DOGS™ trademark registration is intended to cover the categories of wrestling exhibitions and performances by a professional wrestler and entertainer rendered through broadcast media including television and radio, and via the internet or commercial online service; providing wrestling news and information via a global computer network.”

As mentioned, Ziggler and Roode had been on NXT for a little while. Dolph captured the NXT Championship but eventually lost it to Bron Breakker.

Time will tell if WWE actually goes through with a slight change or if they’ve trademarked the “Dirty Dogs” version just to get ahead of anyone who may try to use it.

A current member of the WWE Raw roster was backstage for the June 1 episode of AEW Dynamite.

The show was held inside The Kia Forum in Inglewood, CA. This episode of Dynamite very much had a “Raw after WrestleMania” feel to it. This was the post-Double or Nothing edition of Dynamite.

Fans witnessed a scathing shoot-style promo from MJF. He called AEW President Tony Khan a “f*cking mark” and demanded to be fired.

Adding another element of realism, CM Punk tried confronting MJF during commercial break but Max left through the crowd.

Who Was Backstage For AEW Dynamite?

Fightful is reporting that WWE Raw superstar Dolph Ziggler was backstage for AEW Dynamite. It’s been said that he was very well-liked by the end of the night.

CJ Perry, the former Lana, was also backstage. She is the wife of Miro, who made his return from injury.

Ziggler’s younger brother, Ryan Nemeth, is on the AEW roster.

Dolph had some fun with his brother after Ryan scored his first piece of AEW merchandise back in May.

One former World Heavyweight Champion in WWE is showing his support for Naomi.

Sasha Banks and Naomi are the talk of the wrestling world after walking out of the May 16 episode of Raw.

The two had creative differences over the direction of WWE’s women’s tag team division.

Naomi and Sasha were the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions but they left the gold on the desk of John Laurinaitis and exited the building.

As a result, WWE has suspended both of them indefinitely and has vacated the tag titles.

Dolph Ziggler Takes A Stand

In the midst of the tense situation, Dolph Ziggler posted an image of himself with Naomi and stuck up for her when a notorious troll claimed he was defending unprofessionalism.

“Don’t unsolicitedly, tell people what to do.”

WWE has pulled all online merchandise for Sasha Banks and Naomi. The company took things a step further, saying that both of them disappointed millions of WWE fans during the May 20 episode of SmackDown.

The promotion took even more shots at Naomi and Sasha on the May 23 episode of Raw.

While fans have given Michael Cole and Corey Graves flak for their remarks on Sasha and Naomi, it’s important to note that they’re simply relaying what is being told to them.

Bryan Alvarez recently took to Wrestling Observer Live to report that WWE currently has no creative plans for a Sasha and Naomi return.

WrestleVotes also reported that the situation is expected to get worse.

Dolph Ziggler is having some fun after his brother, Ryan Nemeth, received AEW merchandise.

Dolph performs under the WWE banner, while Ryan works for AEW. The two have been known for roasting each other on social media and the antics certainly haven’t shown signs of slowing down.

Dolph Ziggler Roasts His Brother

AEW has rolled out some new merchandise for Ryan Nemeth and it’s available on ShopAEW. It’s a big deal for Ryan and he made sure he let Dolph know about it.

“Ha! @HEELZiggler you see this?”

Dolph responded and as expected, he had some fun with it.

“Wow!!! Big Patty Mayonnaise meets Don Martin, vibes.”

Dolph also had one more brotherly jab for the road.

“DESTROY IT!”

Dolph Ziggler has had a long career with WWE. He signed a contract with the company back in 2004, developing under Ohio Valley Wrestling. He made his main roster debut as Chavo Guerrero’s caddie. Chavo had undergone a gimmick change and was known as Kerwin White.

The ball started to get rolling with Dolph when he joined the Spirit Squad. Eventually, Dolph became a singles competitor and captured multiple championships in WWE. This included a brief World Heavyweight Title run.

More recently, Ziggler became the NXT Champion. The reign fell short of lasting a full month as Dolph was pinned by Bron Breakker on the post-WrestleMania episode of Raw.

When Kevin Owens first joined WWE, he knew right away he did not want to end up like Dolph Ziggler.

Ziggler has accomplished quite a bit under the WWE’s banner; including two World Heavyweight Title wins, six Intercontinental Title runs, two United States Title victories, a Money In The Bank ladder match win, and so much more. However, despite all his accolades, Ziggler, along with many others, believe he was underutilized.

Upon joining WWE in 2014, Owens spotted how frustrated Ziggler was with his position in the company, and knew immediately he did not want to end up in the same boat. “KO” explained during a recent interview with Corey Graves on “WWE After The Bell.”

“He’s a guy I respect a ton, and I don’t think I’ve ever told him this but he’s one of the guys that I would look at and be like, ‘I don’t want to be like Dolph,’” Owens said. “In the sense that he’s so good and I would see him so frustrated because he’s so good and he feels like he should be doing more, and he was right.

“I remember thinking, man, I don’t want to be like that. This was when I was first [in WWE] in 2014-15, I was like, I don’t want to be like that, I want to come to work and I don’t want to be frustrated all the time.

Owens went on to explain that he’s not a fan of the “you’re in the wrong business” line, finding it too cliche. Instead, he believes some people just have different perspectives, and with enough hard work and persistence, it will all pay off. It certainly did for Ziggler, who found himself winning the NXT Championship not too long ago.

“But guess what, when you’re passionate and hungry and know you’re good, which is what he is, it’s inevitable. It’s going to happen to everybody.

“If you don’t go through that at one point, I’m not going to say you’re in the wrong business because that’s cliche and I don’t believe that, maybe you just have a different perspective, but the hunger to do more and to be able to contribute to the show as much as you think you should or could, that’s normal.

“But it’s important to eventually find that perspective to enjoy it because that’s my thing. I was like, man, Dolph never really seems to enjoy himself. And then that shifted, I’ve seen him now completely differently.”

Ziggler eventually dropped the NXT Championship the night after WrestleMania 38 on Monday Night RAW. He hasn’t wrestled a match on TV since. As for Owens, he’s coming hot off an epic No Holds Barred match with WWE Hall Of Famer Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania.

Owens welcomed Austin back to the ring for the first time in over 19 years. Now, after suffering a loss to “The Texas Rattlesnake,” Kevin Owens is in the midst of a program with Elias’ new persona, Ezekiel.

Quotes via Wrestling Inc.