In an unexpected turn of events, former Major League Wrestling star Richard Holliday was recently spotted backstage at AEW Collision.
Holliday’s contract with MLW expired earlier this year, and his presence at the AEW event has sparked rumours about his future in professional wrestling. According to Fightful Select, several talents at the venue confirmed Holliday’s presence backstage at Collision.
While it remains uncertain whether he was there to negotiate a contract or simply visit friends, his unexpected appearance has generated considerable buzz within the wrestling community.
Who Is Richard Holliday And Why Was He At AEW Collision?
Holliday, whose real name is Joe Zimbardi was born November 8th, 1992, in New Haven, Connecticut. He made his wrestling debut in 2015 and worked in various independent promotions throughout his early years.
Holliday signed for MLW in 2018 and enjoyed success at the promotion, capturing the MLW World Tag Team Championship with current AEW World Champion MJF. The two were part of a stable along with Alex Hammerstone, called The Dynasty. This relationship with the current champion may have played a part in his backstage appearance.
Holliday’s professional wrestling journey has been filled with both triumphs and obstacles. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, he revealed that he had been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in September 2022.
Despite this setback, he demonstrated resilience and determination, making a remarkable recovery and setting his sights on returning to the professional wrestling scene.
Holliday’s contract with MLW came to an end earlier this year, leaving his future in professional wrestling uncertain. His departure from the promotion left many wondering where he would take his talents next.
It had been speculated by Dave Meltzer that WWE was interested in signing Richard Holliday. However, there has been no confirmation from either party of this interest.