WWE’s seasonal releases sparked online turmoil with each new list of released stars being released, but over time most ex-WWE names have found their own locations elsewhere in the industry, often returning to WWE. However, in the case of former Nakamura Enforcer Rick Boogues’ island, the previous WWE name has since cut his boots forever, and is no longer a wrestler.
Around the time of the WWE release in September 2023, Boogue appeared in “Insights with Chris Van Vriette” and was asked if he plans to continue wrestling. “No. When I first decided to wrestling and when I decided to pursue it, I had to put everything into something,” he said. “If I were to commit to this other effort, I would just quit my job. I have a wife and daughter. I lost my job knowing I was hungry. My wife wasn’t really happy.
Rick Boogues continues to suggest that Vince McMahon’s departure has had an impact on his future in WWE
Around the time of his release, Rick Boogue boldly stated in the comments section of one of his YouTube videos. Vince McMahon’s WWE departure said he effectively “killed” his promotional career. During the interview, Boogue recalls his “NXT” run further, noting that he achieved a lot of exposure and success when he was supported by Vince McMahon, changing the administration and when Paul “Triple H” Levesque stepped into creative footing, things changed harshly. “A lot of people say, ‘Yeah, but he’s injured.’ I think I can say this. I really couldn’t kneel, just as I wasn’t rehabilitating yet (on camera).
Interestingly, Boogue didn’t claim it completely, but he suggested that it was likely someone had grumble against him, as he was told the crowd was with him. “It’s basically that regime. That’s what I’ve never heard of. It’s like a scripted television. This can do anything. It can be frustrating. (per WrestlingNews.co).
