Nic Nemeth, formerly known as Dolph Ziggler during his tenure in WWE, recently disclosed the pivotal role played by Shinsuke Nakamura in orchestrating his surprising debut in NJPW.
In a candid conversation with Chris Jericho on a recent episode of Talk Is Jericho, Nic Nemeth shed light on the sequence of events that led to his departure from WWE and subsequent entry into NJPW. Nemeth’s revelation unveiled a long-standing desire to explore opportunities beyond WWE, coupled with a sense of frustration with his limited role in the company.
Recounting his contemplation of leaving WWE, Nemeth shared Nakamura’s offer of support and connections should he venture into new wrestling territories. This pivotal conversation laid the groundwork for Nemeth’s eventual departure from WWE and his transition to NJPW.
A long time ago, I was like, every time a contract comes up, I’m like, ‘Alright, I’m gonna get out of here.’ And he [Nakamura] goes, ‘If you ever get out of here, you know, I got some connections and I would like to help you out as well.’
Detailing his departure from WWE, Nic Nemeth described sending a heartfelt and candid email to Vince McMahon expressing his gratitude for the opportunities while conveying his frustrations and desire to explore other wrestling avenues. McMahon’s response, expressing a willingness to further discuss the matter, eventually led to Nic Nemeth’s release from WWE.
So years and years go by. And I sent an email to the boss [Vince McMahon]. I said at the time we were not sure exactly what was going on. But I sent Vince an incredibly long email 90% thankful ‘Oh my god, you guys they’re so great. You’ve taught me to do all this stuff, 10% of ‘This is messed up, I gotta get the hell out of here.’
I sent that to a few different people. I don’t want to name names, but I sent it to very important people. Vince was the only one who wrote back instantly and was like, ‘This is a lot to unpack. Let’s talk about it further.’ I said, ‘Sir, if you want me to fly to Stamford, tomorrow, I will be on a flight.’ And he said, ‘Thanks. We’ll think about it.’ And then two weeks later, I was released or whatever.
What Did Nic Nemeth Say To Shinsuke Nakamura Following His Release From WWE?
Following his departure, Nic Nemeth turned to Nakamura, seeking guidance and support for his foray into independent wrestling and international opportunities. Nakamura, in response, facilitated the necessary connections, ultimately paving the way for Nemeth’s debut in NJPW.
So the first thing I want to do is like, man, I’ve never done independents. I haven’t gone out of the country, except for with WWE. I go, I’m still friends with Shin. ‘Hey, Shin Do you think I’m so good at wrestling?’ And he laughed? And I was like, ‘What do you think about Japan and he’s like, ‘I got you’ and then put a couple pieces together and get to Rocky Romero, who is the go-between? And luckily for me, they were happy and excited to have me that was one of the first things I did when I got released.
In a new interview, Nic Nemeth recalled being heartbroken when he was renamed Dolph Ziggler.
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