Former WWE Champion and once a prominent figure in WWE, Jinder Mahal experienced a mix of emotions before being suddenly released on April 19, 2024. Referred to by fans as Raj Dhesi when he’s not in the wrestling ring, Mahal’s return to WWE was anticipated to bring back the success he had as a top star in the past. Yet, as time went on, he started to observe small but concerning indications that his time at the company could be coming to an end.
The pivotal moment occurred in a crucial bout against Seth Rollins for the World Heavyweight Championship on the January 15, 2024 edition of WWE Raw. The game created a lot of excitement, briefly boosting Mahal’s morale and sparking a renewed belief in a comeback in his career. But beneath the surface, the storm clouds were already gathering.
The missed opportunities that spelled doom
Even though the match with Rollins was a success, Mahal was noticeably missing from WWE’s renowned event, the Royal Rumble. Taking place only seven days following his battle with Rollins, the Royal Rumble contest presents a chance to make a significant impact on one’s career, as the prestigious number 30 spot is frequently saved for the evening’s most unexpected reveal or the future star of the company. Mahal had pitched himself for this spot, eager to capitalize on the momentum from his recent match. However, his proposal was dismissed, with the spot ultimately going to Sami Zayn.
This rejection negatively impacted Mahal’s ambitions and showed that his position in WWE was decreasing. For an experienced wrestler like Mahal, it was becoming more and more difficult to overlook the signs. The Royal Rumble took place a week later, but I did not participate in it. That was a huge red flag to me at that time, and was kind of an indication that maybe I wasn’t going to be used, Mahal recounted in a candid conversation on Busted Open Radio.
A fading presence in WWE
As the weeks rolled on, Mahal’s fears were confirmed. He found himself relegated to WWE Main Event and live shows, far removed from the prime-time slots he once occupied. His final appearance on WWE television came during the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal on the April 5 episode of WWE SmackDown—a match that, while significant, was a far cry from the main event scene he once dominated.
Reflecting on this period, Mahal shared his frustrations and disappointments but also maintained a sense of gratitude for the journey. “That’s the thing with WWE — you get many opportunities, and sometimes you have missed opportunities. It’s all good. I had a great time there, and I have very close friends that work there. I still support them. I watch the product, and it’s amazing,” he said, with a tone that balanced nostalgia and acceptance.
Reflections on a storied career
For Mahal, his freedom signified the conclusion of an important period in his life, encompassing triumphs and challenges. Throughout his time with WWE, he ascended to the top of the industry by winning the WWE Championship and embodying resilience and dedication. However, he was eventually unable to escape the unpredictability of professional wrestling, which is characterized by constantly changing dynamics and fleeting opportunities.
After being released, Mahal has embraced his true self as Raj Dhesi and has returned to the indie wrestling world with a newfound passion. Fans have enthusiastically supported him in appearances for promotions like GCW, showing admiration for his past successes and looking forward to his future projects.
Raj Dhesi’s future path ahead
Mahal is hopeful about the future and remains optimistic about what is to come. He is very familiar with the wrestling industry, which is full of countless opportunities. Mahal’s journey is not finished, whether he returns to a big promotion or ventures into new opportunities outside of wrestling. His thoughts on the significant warning signs serve as a cautionary reminder for everyone in the field about the uncertain future of their professions.
Currently, Raj Dhesi finds himself at a turning point, prepared to handle any obstacles ahead. His tale is about perseverance, about knowing when the situation has changed, and about mustering the courage to continue, regardless of the uncertain circumstances.
