“Free Ali” continues to gain steam as fans show support for Mustafa Ali
Free Ali is a phrase that has popped up across social media since Mustafa Ali informed the wrestling world that he’s requested his release from the WWE. The company opted to deny his request, which opened the gates to a swell of pushback from fans and viewers. Looking at the company’s response, it’s clear that they know the value that he and others like him have as a commodity in professional wrestling.
Free Ali is showing up not only on social media, but signs are popping up at wrestling events, such as this week’s edition of AEW Dynamite. Fans recognize that Ali is a special talent, both with his personality and his abilities in the ring. Look back on some of his matches with Buddy Murphy, or the way he attempted to save the dumpster fire that was RETRIBUTION. The moment he was revealed as their leader, fans took notice until WWE showed no interest in making it count.
Budget cuts and COVID-19 are thrown around as excuses for the cycle of roster cuts that occurred since the onset of the pandemic. But if that much of the budget needed to be trimmed, why is the WWE so adamant on keeping Ali after he’s made it clear that he’d like to practice his craft elsewhere? Fightful Select reported that the term “value” was used in describing the perception of Ali, but is that more about his value to other organizations rather than the WWE? What does that mean for performers like Ricochet, Cesaro, and many others on the women’s roster that WWE keeps off television or locked in questionable angles?
It means that WWE recognizes that other companies would better utilize the talent they’ve hoarded in recent years. Ali is just one of many that would be seen as a top free agent if given the opportunity to test the waters. This is bigger than just “go to AEW,” but more about individual contractors being able to exercise their individuality.
Next. Kofi Kingston on Mustafa Ali: "I feel for him". dark
If Ali has “years” left on his contract as reported by Fightful Select, it may be a long time before he’s seen on our screens in a professional wrestling capacity again. Fans should keep the energy around “Free Ali” alive until then. Build that energy until the moment he’s able to do something that is in his heart, whether that’s wrestling or not. Ali deserves that opportunity just like everyone else. Playing “keep away” with talent is slowly coming to haunt the WWE, and this is yet another example of such.