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In a recent wave of WWE contract releases, the wrestling world bid farewell to one of its long-standing talents, Dolph Ziggler, who had a remarkable two-decade tenure with the company. While Ziggler boasts an impressive resume, including an unforgettable Money in the Bank cash-in and multiple World Heavyweight Championship reigns, his departure has sparked candid remarks from WWE Hall of Famer, Booker T.
Speaking on his Hall of Fame podcast, the six-time World Champion didn't hold back in his assessment of Ziggler's career trajectory in the latter years. Booker T suggested that Ziggler had, in his view, settled into a state of complacency, remarking, "Dolph seems like he's been on cruise control for the last ten years.
He seemed like he got to the point where he said, 'I'm just going to ride.' "
Adaptation in Wrestling
Booker T pointed out that while Ziggler was undoubtedly a performer of high caliber, he had remained largely unchanged in terms of his character and persona throughout his career.
Booker T emphasized the importance of adapting to the evolving times in the world of entertainment, stating, "For me, if you don't change with the times, the times will pass you by." Furthermore, Booker T noted that Ziggler transitioned into the role of putting other talents over toward the end of his career, which can be indicative of an inability to adapt to changing circumstances.
Nevertheless, Booker T expressed respect for Ziggler's work ethic, describing him as reliable and trustworthy, both in and out of the ring. "Dolph is going to be okay. He's smart. He's a college-educated dude, not just a wrestler.
I see Dolph being okay in life. He's a guy you can call, and you can trust him to go out there and make sure the job is done properly. That's one thing the business needs and why Dolph stayed around for 20 years," Booker T remarked.
In conclusion, Booker T highlighted the necessity of intelligence and likability for longevity in the wrestling business. While Ziggler's in-ring skills are unquestionable, his ability to evolve and adapt to changing times ultimately became a focal point of discussion as he embarks on the next chapter of his career.