Former rugby league player turned WWE wrestler Ridge Holland has revealed that the company will not renew his contract when it expires next month. The Yorkshire-born athlete, real name Luke Menzies, shared the news with fans on social media, expressing his frustration at being released while recovering from injury and supporting a young family.
WWE Confirms Ridge Holland’s Release
Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Menzies announced:
“Quite frustrating to say the least as I cannot work for another six months due to the injury — with a family of five to support.”
The 36-year-old confirmed that WWE will continue to cover his rehabilitation, but his guaranteed salary will end once his deal expires. Menzies suffered a broken foot during a TNA match on September 27, just weeks after returning to action, cutting short what had been a promising chapter in his career.
From Rugby League to WWE Superstar
Before stepping into the wrestling ring, Luke Menzies played professional rugby league, representing Hull KR in the Super League and enjoying spells at Batley, Oldham, Dewsbury, Swinton, York, Halifax, and Salford.
A torn quadriceps muscle ended his rugby career — but what seemed like a setback soon became a new beginning. Speaking to the BBC in an earlier interview, Menzies said:
“It was a blessing in disguise. I contacted a coach around the Oldham area and it snowballed from there. Six months later, I was at a WWE try-out.”
He began performing in Yorkshire’s independent wrestling scene, notably with 3 Count Wrestling, where he won his first championship before signing with WWE in 2018.
WWE Career Highlights
After moving his family to the United States, Ridge Holland joined WWE’s NXT brand before being promoted to SmackDown in 2021, where he teamed up with Sheamus and Butch (Pete Dunne) as part of The Brawling Brutes.
During his WWE tenure, he became a one-time NXT Tag Team Champion and earned a reputation for his powerhouse style and gritty in-ring performances.
In 2023, Holland returned to NXT, and later this year, he made a surprise debut in TNA following a new talent exchange partnership between the two companies. However, his foot injury derailed his momentum, and the setback has now coincided with the end of his WWE deal.
“Grateful but Uncertain About the Future”
Reflecting on his journey, Menzies said:
“My career with WWE has been blighted by misfortune, but I’m still thankful and grateful for the opportunity and experience. The shining light that has always kept me going is the huge support from a handful of special human beings.”
He also revealed plans to launch an online coaching business while recovering from injury, telling followers to “stay tuned” for more details.
What’s Next for Ridge Holland?
With his WWE chapter closing, Menzies’ future in wrestling remains uncertain — but his passion for the sport is undimmed. Known for his toughness and work ethic, the Yorkshire powerhouse has overcome career setbacks before, and fans will be watching closely to see whether he returns to the ring once fully healed.
