UPDATE: Quincy Miller, Mace, and Mansoorand Dana Brooke have also been released by WWE.

This morning, the wrestling world of WWE granted the release of multiple superstars. Prior the recent WWE/UFC merger, all hiring, and budget cuts were on hold until merger was completed. Here’s the current list of superstars who have been released.

Dolph Ziggler, Shelton Benjamin, Elias, Emma, Mustafa Ali, Rick Boogs, Riddick Moss, Aliyah and Top Dolla.

What will the future hold for Dolph Ziggler and Shelton Benjamin?

The names that will stick out most among the releases will be Dolph, Shelton and Mustafa. All of whom who are in the atmosphere of great performers. For two of these individuals, it will be the first time they can test the independent scene. Benjamin has gone through this process before and thrived in NJPW (New Japan Pro Wrestling) and ROH (Ring of Honor) both companies who could possibly be interested in bringing him back to either company. As for Dolph and Mustafa the reaction online is excitement as many see both performers among the most entertaining and in-ring driven wrestlers who can now go out and wrestle the best in other companies. Some have already requested to wrestle these gentlemen via social media.

The dream matches both could have with the likes of companies like AEW, ROH, NJPW, and Impact among other local independent promotions. Dolph also does have his standup comedy which now could free up and do more shows. If you have or continue to support any of the superstars released, go out to their bookings whether it’s wrestling or something else they are passionate about.

Elias, Rick Boogs, Riddick Moss, and Top Dolla will find their niche, whether it’s in wrestling or other industries. Emma and Aliyah will both be fantastic to any promotion looking to bolster their female roster, as Emma is still one of the best wresters in any promotion, while Aliyah has made the most with what she has been given.

Elias could add to any independent promotion or to any music venue.

As many others who have been released over the past have stated, this could be the best thing or the worst thing to happen to your career. The choice is yours and you can look at others who have made the transition from WWE and have gone on to become successful in many different promotions and other media.

For more on Wrestling, make sure to check back to That Hashtag Show.

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