Former WWE Superstar Braun Strowman was released from the Stamford-based wrestling company several weeks ago, marking a major transition in his career. While he has yet to make an appearance in any other wrestling promotion due to contractual restrictions, Strowman has recently secured a leading role in an upcoming action film franchise.
Alongside this professional shift, Strowman has faced a sad personal blow. The wrestling community learned that Kevin Nikel, also known as Ivan Warsaw and a former WWE talent, tragically died after being shot in Arkansas, a loss that has deeply affected many fans and colleagues.
On Instagram, Strowman shared his grief and recalled the important role Nikel played early in his wrestling journey. According to Strowman, Nikel was among the first to offer support when others held back, and the two briefly worked together at the start of Strowman’s career.
“Kevin was one of the very first people that really ever helped me out in this business. When no one else really wanted to do anything with me ( I was the outsider I didn’t come through the indies I didn’t have a bunch of friends that had been in the business for 20 years. So I was always looked down on. ) he pitched and idea for us to be a hillbilly tag team ( fitting as we are both rednecks lol ) we actually got to cut a few promos on some live events,” he wrote.
“I’ll never forget what you did for me in the beginning a lost kid just trying to make it in this crazy business. So sad to hear of this man’s life being taken way too soon. Rest easy brother. Have a beer with the rest of the boyz up there. It’s [sic] was a pleasure to know you friend,” he wrote in his Instagram post.
The Future of Braun Strowman’s Wrestling and Acting Journey
Following his WWE release, Braun Strowman is currently bound by a 90-day non-compete clause that prevents him from appearing in other wrestling organizations. This period of inactivity in the ring coincides with the new opportunity he has taken on as the lead in an action movie franchise, which could steer his career in an entirely new direction.
Despite the passion Strowman has shown throughout his wrestling career as the former Universal Champion and Intercontinental Champion, the success of this acting role might influence whether he returns to professional wrestling or focuses on entertainment outside the squared circle. Fans and critics alike are watching closely to see what path Strowman will choose.
