Former WWE star Dean Mutadi, better known as Mojo Rawley, has finally revealed the real reason behind the sudden halt to his wrestling career in WWE: a severe case of long COVID. On the Rule Breaker Podcast, Mutadi shared that a prolonged and debilitating COVID-19 infection severely impacted his physical ability, preventing him from continuing in the ring.
Mutadi described his time with WWE during this period as very difficult, explaining that the illness left him barely able to breathe and sidelined him for a whole year before he parted ways with the company. Despite several attempts to make a comeback, his body repeatedly failed him, making it impossible to commit to a full return. He highlighted the unpredictable nature of long COVID, where good days could quickly turn into severe bouts of breathing difficulties lasting for days.
Mojo Rawley was officially released from WWE in April 2021 after over eight months without any TV appearances. While rumors circulated about creative differences or a quiet phase-out, the reality was far more serious—he was battling the invisible struggle of long COVID. His exit wasn’t a choice but a necessary step due to his health struggles, a fight largely unseen by fans. Now, Mutadi is focused on building a new career, reminding everyone that the most significant battles often happen away from the spotlight.
Fan Take: This revelation is a powerful reminder of the unseen challenges athletes face beyond their performances. For WWE fans, understanding the health struggles behind Mojo Rawley’s exit adds depth to his story and highlights the importance of athlete wellness in the sport’s future.
