A determined professional wrestler in a dimly lit, empty arena, looking at a fork in the road where one path is lit by stadium lights and the other leads into shadow.
Ridge Holland: From WWE Stardom to Career Crossroads
Ridge Holland, born Luke Menzies on May 29, 1988, is a professional wrestler who gained prominence during his tenure with WWE. Standing at 6'2" and weighing 245 pounds, the English wrestler brought a unique background to the squared circle, having previously competed as a professional rugby league player before transitioning to professional wrestling.
Early Career and Rugby Background
Before entering the world of professional wrestling, Holland had a successful rugby career, playing for teams including the Huddersfield Giants, Wakefield Trinity, and Castleford Tigers in the Super League. His athletic background provided him with the physicality and conditioning that would later serve him well in the wrestling ring.
WWE Career
Holland signed with WWE in 2018 and began training at the WWE Performance Center. He made his television debut in 2020 on NXT, quickly establishing himself as a formidable presence with his hard-hitting style and no-nonsense attitude.
Notable Storylines and Partnerships
During his time in WWE, Holland was involved in several significant storylines:
- The Diamond Mine: Holland was an original member of the Diamond Mine stable, a group of technically proficient wrestlers led by Roderick Strong
- Partnership with Pete Dunne: He formed a successful tag team with Pete Dunne (later Butch), with the duo challenging for the NXT Tag Team Championships
- Main Roster Call-up: In 2022, Holland was called up to the main roster alongside Butch and Sheamus as part of The Brawling Brutes faction on SmackDown
- Chelsea Green
- Omos
- Nick Jackson
- Kyle Fletcher
- Jinder Mahal
Recent Challenges and Career Setback
The wrestler's career took a dramatic turn in September 2025 when, while on loan to TNA Wrestling, he sustained a severe foot injury during a match against Moose. The injury proved to be a pivotal moment in his career.
Contract Non-Renewal
In October 2025, WWE informed Holland that his contract would not be renewed, leaving him without income during his recovery period. This decision came as a significant blow to the wrestler, who had dedicated years to the company.
Public Response and Financial Concerns
Holland publicly expressed his frustration with the situation, stating he felt "hung out to dry" and was concerned about meeting financial obligations like his mortgage. While acknowledging that WWE would cover his medical expenses, he described this support as the "bare minimum" given the sacrifices he had made for the company.
Community Support
In response to his difficult circumstances, the wrestling community rallied behind Holland. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to assist with his living and medical expenses, aiming to raise $60,000. The fundraiser received support from fans and fellow wrestlers alike, including contributions from:
Legacy and Impact
Holland's situation has sparked important conversations within the wrestling industry about the treatment of injured performers and the support systems available to them during recovery periods. His journey from rugby star to WWE competitor, and now to facing career uncertainty while injured, highlights the precarious nature of professional wrestling careers and the challenges athletes face when injuries occur.
As of late 2025, Holland's future in professional wrestling remains uncertain, but his story serves as a reminder of the physical risks and career instability that can accompany life in the squared circle.
The prompt for this was: ridge holland
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