Ridge Holland stirred up the WWE NXT scene on Tuesday with a poignant announcement about stepping away from in-ring competition indefinitely.
The former Brawling Brutes member cited grappling with mental health challenges stemming largely from fan backlash following Big E’s injury back in 2022.
While the timeline for Holland’s return to action remains uncertain, it seems his tenure with the Stamford-based company has paused, at least for now.
Given this development, let’s go into the journeys of five WWE Superstars who, like Ridge Holland, unexpectedly bid adieu to the squared circle, be it temporarily or permanently.
5. Trish Stratus – WWE Hall of Famer
Trish Stratus, a beloved figure in WWE lore despite her relatively brief stint with the company, bid farewell in 2006 at the age of 30 after a stellar career. Her seven-time Women’s Championship reign solidified her legacy.
Since then, she’s made sporadic appearances, notably gracing events like WrestleMania and SummerSlam.
4. Bryan Danielson – Former WWE Superstar
Bryan Danielson, formerly known as Daniel Bryan, ascended to the zenith of WWE in the early 2010s only to bow out in February 2016 due to health concerns, despite a triumphant Intercontinental Championship win in 2015.
His poignant retirement speech underscored the gravity of his decision, albeit he later resurfaced in 2018 before transitioning to AEW in 2021.
3. Paige – Former WWE Divas Champion
Paige, also known as Saraya, was forced to bid adieu to the ring due to severe injuries, punctuating her illustrious WWE career that spanned from 2014 to 2018.
Neck surgeries rendered her unable to compete, prompting an emotional retirement declaration. While she briefly assumed a General Manager role, she ultimately found a new wrestling home in AEW in 2022.
2. Triple H – WWE Legend
Triple H, a titan in WWE history with 14 World Championship reigns, relinquished his in-ring endeavors in 2021 following a cardiac incident. Transitioning to a part-time performer in 2010, he later assumed an executive role within WWE.
His health concerns prompted a definitive retirement stance, though his contributions to the industry endure.
1. Edge – WWE Hall of Famer
Edge, now recognized as Adam Copeland, bid adieu to WWE after WrestleMania 27 due to a debilitating neck injury in 2011. His emotional retirement speech resonated deeply as he candidly acknowledged the precariousness of his wrestling future.
Yet, a triumphant return in 2020 reignited his passion before departing WWE and embracing a new chapter with AEW as Adam Copeland.
These Superstars’ journeys reflect the complexities of life in the wrestling world, where triumph and tribulation often intertwine on the road to legacy.
