While the WWE is considered a paradise for pro wrestlers, there are cases where some are released with no warning. This was the case for one unfortunate rising star from Saudi Arabia. Despite gaining some traction with the fans, the star was released in September 2023. Instead of heading to the next big promotion, this star decided to do something else.

Following the release, the star returned to the Indie wrestling scene after years of being in the WWE.

Mansoor makes his return to the independent circuit after 5 years

Mansoor Al-Shehail, better known as simply Mansoor, was released from the WWE on September 21, 2023. This was five years after joining the company in 2018. Prior to this, he was part of the indie circuit where he learned the ropes and gained some experience.

Mansoor made his name in the WWE by winning the 51-man Battle Royal during the Super ShowDown event in Saudi Arabia in 2019. He defeated Cesaro at Crown Jewel the same year. These two victories solidified him as one of the rising stars in the WWE. He was ranked #181 in the PWI 500 in 2021.

Taking to social media, he proudly posted his return to the Indies debuting at DEADLOCK Pro Wrestling. This is a North Carolina-based independent professional wrestling company. He was not the only one to make their debut; Mason D. Madden also accompanied him during the segment.

Mansoor gained a ton of fan following especially in the Arab community. He was the representation of a positive portrayal of the community by the WWE. This was the first attempt by the WWE after the horrifying portrayal of Muhammad Hassan during the early 2000s. But what exactly prompted the prestige wrestling promotion to let go of the prospect?

Why was Mansoor released by the WWE?

While the WWE has not confirmed the reason for the release, many believe it to be due to budget cuts. There were several wrestlers along with Mansoor who were released. Before his release, there were not that many appearances by Mansoor on the program. The lack of creative direction for the Arab superstar must have played a pivotal part in WWE making the tough decision to let him go from the promotion.

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Many fans believe that the company did not know what to do with the star. There could have been creative disputes with the star and the creative team. Some claim due to the UFC and WWE merger, there were management changes that could have led to his release. Nevertheless, the former WWE superstar will aim to take a fresh step towards relevancy by establishing his prowess in the indie circuit.

What do you think about Mansoor’s return to the Indies? Tell us in the comments.

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