Report: Mustafa Ali Plans For NXT Title Before His WWE Release
Backstage details have surfaced regarding substantial plans for Mustafa Ali on NXT that were ultimately canceled before his release from WWE.
According to information from Fightful Select, the initial strategy was for Mustafa Ali to become the North American champion prior to his departure. This was supposedly a contributing factor to the frustration expressed by NXT management regarding his release.
Reportedly, Ali was set to interfere in the Mysterio vs Dragon Lee North American Title match on WWE RAW September 25 episode. This would have potentially lead to a three-way match at No Mercy, which Ali would have won.
Mustafa Ali was to become the NXT North American Champion before he was released, Fightful Select has learned
— FightfulSelect.com! Exclusive Pro Wrestling News (@FightfulSelect) October 3, 2023
Full story for subscribers of Fightful Select! pic.twitter.com/5VdOyBbPhr
Fightful’s report also mentioned the possibility of Ali returning to NXT in 2024, with WWE considering various creative plans for his future with the brand.
On the September 5th episode of NXT, Ali managed to secure victory against Lee, earning himself a shot at becoming the #1 contender for the NXT North American Championship. The match was officially announced for No Mercy. However, on September 21, it was revealed that Ali had been released from WWE.