No one can dispute the whirlwind of events unfolding within the premier pro wrestling promotion, WWE. The fusion of WWE with the UFC under TKO Company has sparked a seismic shift in the power landscape, initially marked by significant terminations of hundreds of WWE employees. Presently, a cascade of developments has unfurled, spanning from the revelation of PLE Australia and the lucrative $1.4 billion TV contract to the departure of 17 esteemed superstars, among them Dolph Ziggler and Mustafa Ali. Dive in to find the details and the latest update on WWE drama.
WWE Recent Turmoil: PLE Australia, $1.4B TV Deal, and 17 Superstar Removed
Starting with great news, WWE has confirmed a return to international grounds, setting its sights on Australia. After a prolonged five-year absence, Australian fans are thrilled to witness the WWE’s comeback, stoking excitement to unprecedented levels. The much-anticipated WWE Elimination Chamber is slated to dominate Optus Stadium in Perth, Australia, come Saturday, February 24, 2024. This announcement is sure to elate fans Down Under.
Following this, there was a notable announcement that the flagship show of the premier pro wrestling company, WWE, “Friday Night SmackDown,” is making its way back to the USA Network. This move is part of a substantial 5-year agreement with NBC Universal, marking a return to their regular broadcasting home. Starting October 2024, the USA Network will be the platform for WWE’s “Friday Night SmackDown.”
In this new agreement, NBC Universal is set to invest a substantial $287 million per year for the exclusive U.S. rights to air SmackDown. This deal accumulated to an impressive overall value exceeding $1.4 billion which took a jump of 40% compared to the prior five-year contract.
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17 Superstars Got Axed
Following these major announcements, a wave of news broke from the core of WWE, revealing the departure of several Superstars, ranging from the seasoned veteran Dolph Ziggler to talents like Mustafa Ali. The list of 17 superstars bidding farewell includes:
1. Dolph Ziggler
2. Riddick Moss
3. Elias
4. Top Dolla
5. Emma
6. Aliyah
7. Mustafa Ali
8. Rick Boogs
9. Dabba Kato
10. Dana Brooke
11. Mansoor
12. Mace
13. Quincy Elliot
14. Yulisa Leon
15. Shanky
16. Bryson Montana
17. Shelton Benjamin
Fightful’s recent reports shed light on mounting discontent among WWE wrestlers. The frustration stems from the stark contrast between the staggering $1.4 billion SmackDown deal announcement and the subsequent swift talent cuts. Indeed, now it will be interesting to see what happens next in the company.
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