Mustafa Ali was a very talented WWE superstar. He was known for his electric, high-flying moves and charismatic presence. A large section of the WWE Universe always believed that one day he would get a long push. He recently revealed that his push was only changed at the last minute into disaster.
In a recent interview with Chris Van Vliet, Ali shared a very interesting story. He said that he was originally scheduled to win the Money in the Bank contract. The plans were changed just moments before as they were making their entrances. Ali revealed how plans for his win were unexpectedly altered. He mentioned his excitement upon the thought of possibly winning and then not getting the opportunity to do so.
I show up to Money in the Bank, and they’re like, ‘Hey, you’re winning it.’ I go, “What?!” Later that night Vince is looking up.. He goes, ‘Change of plans. Do the match.. I want you to climb up the ladder and grab the briefcase. Someone’s going to come out. I want you to hold the briefcase and just have shock on your face.
It was revealed by the former WWE superstar that he expected Brock Lesnar to come out. He further admitted that he was very scared when he saw Lesnar run out towards the ring. However, he has also credited the Beast Incarnate with being very professional and careful about everything. It seems like Lesnar has been mistaken for a harsh character backstage. This interview definitely shows that Brock seems to be a nice guy.
The revelation about Lesnar’s careful approach and consideration is a lot of respect towards him. It also serves as a reminder that wrestlers work together to make the matches more interesting. Ali not winning the Money in the Bank contract may be disappointing for the fans. But it was an altered decision made by Vince McMahon.
Mustafa Ali speaks about how his WWE release was a surprise but expected
The release of Mustafa Ali was not a shock to everybody around the WWE Universe. He got released from WWE in September 2023. Despite being in a mix over the NXT North American Championship at that point in time, he did not expect much in the company. In the same interview, he mentioned why it was both a surprise and a shock.
He even revealed that he was scheduled to face Dominik Mysterio at a Premium Live Event that weekend. Ali was even set to capture the gold that evening. He further added that the reason behind Dominik Mysterio capturing the NXT North American championship was ratings.
Not surprised that it happened. Surprised when it did happen? Yeah. I think I was in NXT at the time, and I actually had a pay-per-view match scheduled that weekend with Dominik Mysterio for the North American Championship.
WWE was having a network deal coming up, and all the members of The Judgement Day were holding championship gold. They wanted to spike the ratings of NXT as well, so they gave Dominik the belt.
It seems like Ali’s WWE career had everything promised to him but taken away at the last minute. It would have been interesting to see him as Mr. Money in the Bank or even as NXT North American Champion.
