Luke Menzies, previously known as Ridge Holland has released a statement on the GoFundMe page that was set up following his WWE departure.
Menzies was released from the company at the start of the month, but is unable to compete for other promotions as he is recovering from a Lisfranc injury, which is expected to keep him out of action until mid-2026 at the earliest.
Although Menzies was originally set to leave WWE via contract expiration, it is now believed that social media posts made by the wrestler criticising how the company handled his situation is what led to the early termination.
As one of Holland’s statements mentioned that he was unsure how he was going to support his family moving forward, the GoFundMe was set up so that fans could support the former WWE star, which saw wrestlers including Chelsea Green, Omos and Kyle Fletcher all make contributions. However, in an update from Menzies, this page is set to be shut down soon.
Responding to the page being set up on social media, Holland stated that he had no idea about the campaign and confirmed that it was created by a family member. Holland also made the request that no more donations be made and that all donations, which now exceed $10,000, will be donated to charity:
“Thank you all for the incredible support shown through the GoFundMe campaign. However, I want to clarify that I was not aware the page was going live and had no prior discussion with the family member who created it.
I’ve since requested that no further donations be accepted, and this change should take effect within the next 24 hours. One we figure out how to move forward and I recoup the amount donated, I will be donating said amount to charity.
I sincerely apologize if the page caused any upset or offense — that was never the intention. Thank you for your understanding and kindness.”
Former WWE Champion Defends GoFundMe Set Up For Ridge Holland
Although many were sympathetic towards Holland and his situation, others were more critical of the GoFundMe being set up as they believed that Holland would have a surplus of money given his tenure in the world’s biggest pro wrestling company. Defending Holland, former WWE Champion Jinder Mahal pointed out how many expenses the wrestlers have:
“WWE does have financial education programs. Just curious — how much do you think NXT talent make when you subtract travel, wrestling gear, maintaining a professional athlete physique, gym, and supplements… now subtract taxes. Now, with what’s left, try raising a family, paying for groceries, rent/mortgage, car payments, and personal health insurance for you and your family. Now factor in not being able to earn income due to injury. Finally, add the fact that you no longer have WWE-provided health insurance for wrestling-related injuries — and you’re staring at a possible neck surgery.”
Featured image: WWE
