Mustafa Ali’s WWE Release Upset A Lot Of People In NXT

WWE and UFC merged into one company, and cuts to the company came after that. They fired over 100 employees, and then about a week later, the company released a number of names from the main roster and NXT. That was news to everyone until the word was handed down.

We previously noted that Shawn Michaels admitted that he didn’t hear about Mustafa Ali’s WWE release until just before Ali himself. There were plans for him to take on Dominik Mysterio at No Mercy for NXT North American Title.

Sean Sapp noted behind Fightful’s paywall that Mustafa Ali’s release from WWE upset a lot of people in NXT. He was gaining steam just before his release, which added to the frustration.

Needless to say, there were several people unhappy with Mustafa Ali’s release from WWE. Ali had been effectively moved to NXT, where he was gaining steam on the brand. Sources that Fightful spoke to were frustrated with the lack of communication between WWE and NXT.

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Specifically, we were told that some of the frustration emanated from the fact that there’s been a renewed effort to stack NXT with familiar names. In addition to losing one of those names, a planned match with two main roster talent in Mustafa Ali and Dominik Mysterio is now off the table. Those that we heard from said there was no indication as of Tuesday that Mustafa Ali was going to be cut, and even no indication cuts would happen to anyone with a main roster contract.

Shawn Michaels discussed the impact of recent releases on NXT’s immediate plans, specifically mentioning Dana Brooke. Dana had expressed a desire for increased in-ring involvement. Additionally, it was mentioned independently of Michaels’ remarks that NXT welcomed her presence and that she had a favorable reputation among the roster, demonstrating a willingness to assist others.

Mustafa Ali could find himself in AEW eventually, if they offer him a spot. It appears that he is more than ready to take any booking after his sudden WWE release.

WWE was giving Mustafa Ali a fresh chance in NXT, and it appeared that his character was building as well. Then things came to a sudden end, but this is not the end of his story.

Mustafa Ali made a lot of fans in WWE, and some of them may follow him to another company. Only time will tell where he lands next, but his exit from NXT was obviously not what the brand had in mind for his story.

What’s your take on Mustafa Ali’s WWE release? Sound off in the comments to let us know what you think!