Note on WWE’s Creative Plans For Mustafa Ali Prior To Release

As previously reported, WWE has cut nine talents from the company so far, including former cruiserweight champion Mustafa Ali. Ali himself confirmed his exit on social media. Haus of Wrestling reports that there were creative plans in place to have Ali appear on Monday’s episode of RAW prior to today’s news. Ali had hinted at this on Tuesday’s NXT, when he spoke about Dragon Lee getting a shot at Dominik Mysterio’s NXT North American title next week.

According to the report, Ali would have gotten involved in the Mysterio-Lee match, which would have caused “ramifications” for his planned match at NXT No Mercy. Ali was the announced #1 contender to the North American title.

A WWE source noted that they didn’t believe Ali was “ever going to get a chance to shine” in the company, but didn’t know why. Ali was said to always be “upbeat” backstage, particularly during his NXT run, even though some felt he was unhappy with his position. One person called him “the ultimate pro.”