At Monopoly Events’ For The Love of Wrestling, Raj Dhesi spoke about his WWE run as Jinder Mahal and how his role in 3MB led to his unlikely WWE Championship victory. Dhesi shared that when he first heard about Heath Slater getting a band, he speculated who’d be cast. While he saw names like Johnny ‘Fandango’ Curtis and Jon Moxley as potential band members, the idea was not for him.
“I jokingly said watch all be in the band complete joke and lo and behold I found out that I was going to be a member of the band.”
Dhesi was distraught at the idea of being part of the comedy group, equating the idea to “career s*icide.” After this initial shock, however, Dhesi decided to embrace the role, for better and worse.
“You just have to embrace it and we actually embraced it too much where we thought we were legit rock stars which led to the downfall.”
The downfall in question saw Dhesi released in 2014, a setback that forced the wrestler to re-evaluate his life. After focusing himself on getting in better shape, Dhesi was rehired in 2016 and became WWE Champion the following year.
“Without 3MB, there would be no Maharaja, there would be no WWE Champion.”
Dhesi’s story highlights the importance of wrestlers embracing what they are given as even the most unlikely characters can rise up to become World Champion. With all three members of the band seeing success after the group’s split, Dhesi’s unlikely journey to the WWE Champion is a story that should inspire wrestlers on all rungs of the proverbial ladder.
Raj Dhesi isn’t opposed to signing with another major promotion in wrestling, but only under the right circumstances. Speaking with with Monopoly Events’ Jamal Niaz at For The Love of Wrestling in Manchester, England, the former WWE Champion reflected on his future in the ring.
“As far as signing with another major promotion, everything would have to be right. Storyline, business would have to make sense. Everything would have to make sense.”
Dhesi competed as Jinder Mahal for years, during which he became WWE Champion, U.S. Champion, and 24/7 Champion. Comparing WWE today to his tenure with the promotion, Dhesi wished that WWE had scaled back on live events during his run.
“I wish we would have had this schedule now with less emphasis on live events because we were worked pretty heavily. Our schedules were quite intense with live events.”
Some fans have predicted that Dhesi will land in AEW which has become home to other former WWE Superstars and Champions. Though Fhesi has a history with Tony Khan, he explained that “AEW, not at an official level [has reached out.] Nobody has on a really official level.”
For now, Dhesi is keeping himself active on the indpendents where he has quickly become a top draw. As far as a future in a major promotion is concerned, Dhesi isn’t opposed to a contract, but only under the right circumstances.
Posted February 17th, 2025 in News. Tagged: Raj Dhesi.
Jinder Mahal is not rushing to sign a new contract.
The former WWE star recently spoke to MuscleManMalcolm at WrestleCade. He discussed things such as his WWE title win, which talents he would like to face in 2025, his Waffle house order and more.
When asked if he’s open to signing a contract in wrestling, Mahal who goes by the name Raj Dhesi mentioned how he’s enjoying his time as an independent wrestler. He noted that he is not opposed to signing a new deal somewhere but the opportunity will have to be the right one:
“For the right opportunity, yes. Obviously, it’s wrestling business and we’re open for business. But all things have to be right. I don’t mind what I’m doing. I pick my own schedule, wrestle whoever I want. I’m open to do things outside of wrestling. Which is a big thing. But again, for the right opportunity, the right time, anything is possible.”
Speaking about the new WWE ID program, the Modern Day Maharaja said that he’s happy to see a program that can help young indie wrestlers get more opportunities:
“I’m really happy that WWE created the ID program. An opportunity for independent wrestlers to get some brand power with WWE. Help them pursue other opportunities and then one day end up in WWE. I think it’s a great initiative. I think it’s balances well with the NIL program.”
Mahal also talked about his 2018 feud with Roman Reigns and their match at Money In The Bank in Chicago. He revealed that WWE had considered the idea of making it a Punjabi Prison match.
Black Label Pro Wrestling is an Indiana-based promotion that since 2017 has hosted shows and built up a loyal legion of fans. Unfortunately for those fans, they’ve seen the last of Black Label Pro for the time being as the company is going on a hiatus.
On Twitter, Black Label Pro shared that its Fancy Wrestling event, scheduled for October 12, has been canceled, as have all other upcoming events. The statement also confirmed that tickets have been submitted and refunds and fans were thanked for their support.
Unfortunately we have decided to cancel Fancy Wrestling and the rest of the events upcoming.
We are going on a hiatus for the time being.
All tickets have already been submitted for refunds.
Fancy Wrestling was set to take place at Crown Point, Indiana and was set to feature a stacked card including Raj Dhesi. The former WWE Superstar debuted for BLP shortly after his non-compete clause expired, and captured the BLP World Championship in his first post-WWE match in July of this year.
Though a relatively new company compared to the likes of WWE, TNA Wrestling, or Ring of Honor, Black Label Pro has seen its share of top names. Notable alumni include TNA World Champion Nic Nemeth, TNA Knockouts World Champion Jordynne Grace, Mike ‘Riddick Moss’ Rallis, Moose, Mustafa Ali, and self-professed Indy God Matt Cardona. The company’s most recent event, Crowning Glory, saw many of these top names with Dhesi and Grace emerging victorious in their respective matches.
Seeing a wrestling company close shop is never fun and hopefully this hiatus proves to only be a temporary setback for those working at Black Label Pro. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest from the world of independent pro wrestling.
Former TNA Wrestling President Scott D’Amore is set to relaunch Maple Leaf Wrestling as Mapple Leaf Pro (MLP) this October. D’Amore has kept a low profile since his abrupt termination from TNA Wrestling on February 7. He reportedly attempted to acquire the promotion from Anthem Sports and Entertainment, but was denied. This went down right after D’Amore had successfully led Impact Wrestling’s rebrand back to TNA.
After months of suspense, D’Amore returns to wrestling to run Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling. They will host a two-night Forged By Excellence event on October 19 and 20 at St. Clair College in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. Tickets will go on sale on August 26, these Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling events will stream live on Triller TV on pay-per-view.
Former WWE Champion Raj Dheshi (Jinder Mahal) has been announced for the first shows, along with TNA stars Josh Alexander, Gisele Shaw, and KUSHIDA.
— MAPLE LEAF PRO Wrestling (@MapleLeafPW) August 8, 2024
History of Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling
The company originated in Toronto, Canada, and started as Queensbury Athletic Club in the 1930s. It would rebrand to Maple Leaf Wrestling in the 1940s and feature several legendary wrestlers, including Andre the Giant, Bruno Sammartino, and Ric Flair. By 1984, WWE(FKA WWF) acquired Major Leaf Wrestling, and the promotion ceased operation.
The move to relaunch Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling may help restore the brand’s legacy and attract a new audience that was unaware of its existence. It was also announced that the library of old matches from the promotion will be uploaded to YouTube, Facebook, and other platforms, which will allow fans to watch their history at a later date.
D’Amore decision to resurrect Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling is intriguing and could be an exciting promotion in the independent wrestling market. From his work at TNA, he has shown what he can contribute to a company. Hopefully, this will open more opportunities for Canadian and other indie wrestlers who have yet to be given a spotlight.
Former WWE World Champion Raj Dhesi once again has title gold around his waist after winning at Black Label Pro’s Old Habits event. Dhesi, who entered free agency earlier this month, defeated Dominic Garrini in the show’s main event to win the title in Dhesi’s first match since his release from WWE. Garrini defended the title in place of his Violence is Forever tag team partner Kevin Ku who has been out of action with an injury.
Much like Matt Cardona four years earlier, Dhesi appears poised to make an impact on the independent scene. Following his release, it was reported that promotions were eager to work with Dhesi, especially given that there is a gap for indie wrestling’s top heel since Cardona is out with an injury.
In WWE, Dhesi worked with top names such as Randy Orton, Roman Reigns, Drew McIntyre, and The Rock. While the independents don’t often quite the same names in terms of star power, Dhesi now has a much wider field of potential opponents to work with.
Fans may have been part of the ‘Don’t Hinder Jinder’ movement, but now the message is ‘Don’t Messi with Dhesi.’ Stay tuned to SE Scoops for the latest on Raj Dhesi’s journey outside the world of WWE.
Raj Dhesi (formerly Jinder Mahal in WWE) doesn’t agree with the critics who believe that WWE missed an opportunity with the wrestler.
In a TikTok video clip, the former WWE Champion reacted to a fan who said WWE “dropped the ball” on him. He explained that during his 12-year career with WWE, he was able to make the most of the opportunities. He also got to travel the world, build valuable relationships, become financially independent, and have multiple in-ring achievements.
During his time in the company, he held the WWE Championship once and won the United States Championship at WrestleMania. ‘The Modern Day Maharaja’ said that he had a great time in WWE and thanked his fans for their support. Now, he is eyeing to make a mark on the indie circuit. He said:
“So I see this comment a lot and I wanna kinda share my opinion on it. ‘WWE dropped the ball on me’ – I would say that’s not true.
“Had a very long career, 12 years in WWE. WWE Champion, won the United States Championship at WrestleMania, made a great living, really set myself up for the future, for the rest of my life. Given me a sense of financial independence where now I can just do whatever I wanna do. Freedom, flexibility, got to travel the world, build amazing relationships, a lot of good memories. And it’s gonna continue now on the independents, just doing things my way.
So WWE did not drop the ball, I had a great career, a great time, and, yeah, thank you for all the fans tuning in for all these years.”
Jinder Mahal on people who say WWE dropped the ball on him:
"I would say that's not true. I Had a very long career. 12 years in WWE. WWE Champion, Why the United States championship at WrestleMania.
Dhesi will make his in-ring debut for GCW next month. The promotion announced that Dhesi will face Effy in a singles match on August 2 at GCW Now and Forever event in Cleveland, Ohio. “The Maharaja” has also revealed the tour dates for his ‘Unhindered Tour.’ He is scheduled to make a handful of appearances in several locations across North America. Check out the schedule below.
Raj Dhesi (formerly Jinder Mahal in WWE) is set to make his in-ring debut for GCW next month. On Sunday, GCW announced that Dhesi will face Effy in a singles match on August 2 at the promotion’s Now and Forever event in Cleveland, Ohio.
Mahal was let go from WWE back in April and he spoke about his release in detail. Following his release, several promotions were reportedly eager to work with him and the list included GCW.
Dhesi entered the ring wearing a mask and attacked Effy. He performed his finisher Khallas before unmasking himself.
Dhesi recently said that he would raise GCW to his standards and become their champion. He also bashed GCW General Manager Matt Cardona for doing a terrible job in his role.
“The Maharaja” Raj Dhesi has revealed the tour dates for his ‘Unhindered Tour.’ The former World Champion will be making appearances in various locations across North America.
“The Maharaja” Raj Dhesi has announced the tour dates for his Unhindered independent wrestling tour. The 1-time WWE Champion formerly known as Jinder Mahal is set to make appearances in various locations across North America.
Check out these dates where you can see Raj Dhesi in the United States, Canada, Mexico and online this summer.
Ex-WWE Superstar Jinder Mahal wasted no time in making an impact after his non-compete clause expired when he showed up in Game Change Wrestling. At last night’s GCW So High event, Effy was attacked from behind by a masked figure who hit him with the Khallas. This attacker was revealed to be Mahal, who is now working as Rah Dhesi.
Mahal’s debut for Game Changer Wrestling comes shortly after his 90-day mon compete clause with WWE expired. The former World Champion was one of seven ex-Superstars who entered free agency this week and on Twitter, he made clear he can work and sign anywhere he chooses.
It’s hardly a surprise that Mahal has made an impact in wrestling so soon after his non-compete clause with WWE expired. After his release, promotions were said to be heavily interested in the Modern-Day Maharajah and GCW was ‘foaming at the mouth’ to work with him.
Seven former Superstars are free agents 90 days after their WWE releases in April 2024. We’ll be following their next moves here at SEScoops, so you can follow their careers wherever they wind up next.
Here are the WWE Superstars that are now free to work anywhere:
Jinder Mahal
Now going by Rah Dhesi, the former WWE Champion is the most high-profile name among this crop of wrestlers to enter the free agency market. Dhesi will make his debut for Black Label Pro Wrestling at their upcoming event on July 26.
Fans waited long enough for Veer Mahaan to arrive on Monday Night Raw, but that didn’t stop the wrestler and former baseball player from being released. His final match saw was as part of the 2024 Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal in which he was eliminated by the Creed Brothers.
Sanga
The final member of Indus Sher, Sanga was part of Ring Ka King (An india-based brand of TNA Wrestling) before coming to WWE in 2018. His final match was also the 2024 Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal where he was also thrown out by the Creeds.
Cameron Grimes
The former NXT North American Champion has plenty of pre-WWE homes, including Pro Wrestling Guerrilla, OMEGA Wrestling, and TNA Wrestling. It’s in the latter promotion where Grimes held the X-Division Championship three times and is a former TNA World Tag Team Champion.
Xia Li
Despite a high-profile feud with Becky Lynch in 2023, Li was among those released in April. On August 3, Li will make her MMA for the Combat Night promotion. The ex-Superstar who is trained in wushu will face Xiomara Lee in Kissimmee, FL.
A former Rugby player who signed with WWE in 2018, Quinn had to wait until 2020 before he made his debut. Despite an impressive build, the Australian’s final match for WWE saw him squashed by Bron Breakker in mere seconds on an episode of SmackDown.
Despite being poised as one to watch when NXT 2.0 launched, Von Wagner’s tenure in WWE NXT ended this past April without any title gold to his name. Wagner is the son of WWE alum Beau Beverly and Von’s final match saw him lose to Lexis King.
Former WWE Superstar Jinder Mahal recently sat down with Chris Van Vliet to reflect on his journey in wrestling and his release earlier this year. Mahal held the WWE, United States, and 24/7 Championships before being cut.
Thoughts On WWE
This year marked the second time in a decade that Mahal, now working under the name Rah Dhesi, has been released from WWE. Despite this unfortunate statistic, the Canadian wrestler bears no ill will to his former employer.
Mahal: “There’s no hostility, there’s no negative feelings at all with WWE. I’m very grateful for them for all the years and the platform they provided me.”
On The Release
Mahal was let go from WWE along with the rest of Indus Sher after the group had worked on Monday Night RAW and in WWE NXT. Mahal recalled WWE keeping the group away from important personal events, only to be left on the sidelines.
Mahal: “A few months prior (to being released) Veer had a religious event that he holds, it was the one-year anniversary of his father’s death. He got told that no, we’re needed for RAW, you can’t go back home… Sure enough, that week we weren’t booked, we were sitting at home.
“They were quite frustrated. And also myself, started off the year with The Rock and had the WWE championship match. Then one week later, I’m not in the Royal Rumble. Which was I thought it was very weird. So we talked to TR, we just said, Hey, listen, like, if there’s nothing for us, we can go our separate ways. And sure enough, a few months later, we went our separate ways.”
When asked if he requested his release, Mahal made clear that he didn’t but that at the time was open to the two sides going their separate ways.
On Fan Support After He Was Released
While being released is rarely fun, Mahal was met with a whirlwind of fan support and interest from independent promotions shortly after his release. This wave of momentum didn’t go unnoticed by the former World Champion.
Mahal: “I generally get a lot of hate online. But it was one of those rare instances where I got to show my real personality, actually, this happens to me all the time. I meet people and they’re like, wow, like you’re not what we expect. [They say] you’re nice, maybe it’s the Canadian in me. Always respectful, polite, and the Jinder Mahal character was the complete opposite of me.”
On Drew McIntyre
Mahal isn’t the only 3MB alum to reach the pinnacle of WWE as Drew McIntyre is also a former WWE Champion after capturing the gold at WrestleMania 36. While Mahal is happy to remind fans that he was the first 3MB member to taste WWE World Championship gold, he’s pleased to see McIntyre be a main event talent on Monday Night RAW.
Mahal: “I became WWE Champion before Drew McIntyre, don’t you forget that [laughs]. Drew’s the man. What Drew is doing right now is incredible. This is the best version of Drew. Drew’s the man. He’s like a brother to me and to see him in this position.
“He just signed a new contract so he’ll be there for a few more years. Something about a man like he is incredible. He’s having fun. I just don’t think he cares anymore and that’s usually when the best comes out. Like CM Punk, he doesn’t care about anything and that’s why he’s the best.”
On Being in The Punjabi Prison Match
In 2017, during his reign as WWE Champion, Mahal faced Randy Orton in the third Punjabi Prison match. While Mahal would win the match (with a timely assist from the Great Khali,) it’s not a match that the Modern-Day Maharaja enjoyed.
Mahal: “The Punjabi prison match sucks. It’s terrible. [In what way?] It’s so hard. The inside cage is the blue old-school cage. You can hit it as hard as possible and it won’t even make a noise. It was terrible. And then just the crowd reaction they couldn’t really see the people in the arena, there’s two cages so when we’re on the inside, there’s two cages they couldn’t really see. And it was just painful. Kendo sticks, chair shots, everything.”
On Not Working With Brock Lesnar
Later on that year, Mahal (still the WWE Champion) was poised to face RAW’s Universal Champion Brock Lesnar at Survivor Series. Mere days before the show, Mahal lost his title to AJ Styles who’d lose to the Beast at the PLE. Despite rumors of Lesnar refusing to work with him, Mahal doubts that’s the case.
Mahal: “The headline came out, ‘Brock Lesnar refused to work with Jinder.’ I don’t think he refused. I just think it was he probably pitched for a match with AJ because stylistically, it is a much better match. Me and Brock are both heels. Who’s gonna put heat on who? It was gonna be a flat match. It would have just been him suplexing me a bunch of times, maybe Singh Bros get involved. But the match he had with AJ was phenomenal.”
“I had it [the WWE Championship] for six months and I didn’t know that I was losing the championship until the day of. We were in Manchester and we have the title match. We get to the building. Michael Hayes tells me and AJ go talk to Vince, and send us to Vince’s office, Vince tells me you’re dropping the championship.”
