The Miz, one of WWE’s longest-tenured superstars, recently opened up about how deeply he was affected by Dolph Ziggler’s release from the company in September 2023. Speaking candidly, The Miz discussed the departure of his friend and former rival, highlighting its impact on him both professionally and personally.
A Friendship Shaped by the WWE Spotlight
The Miz’s career with WWE began in 2004, marking him as a mainstay in the promotion for two decades. Over those years, he became known not only for championship runs but also for his compelling feuds. One of his most memorable adversaries was Dolph Ziggler, whose WWE tenure spanned 19 years before ending unexpectedly. Their rivalry, especially the 2016 storyline where Ziggler put his career on the line against The Miz for the Intercontinental Championship, remains a fan favorite. Despite their onscreen conflicts, the two developed a strong friendship backstage, cementing their bond beyond the ring.
The Impact of Ziggler’s Departure
The wrestling world was taken aback when Dolph Ziggler was released after nearly two decades. The Miz, reflecting on the situation during his appearance on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, explained just how hard it was to see a close companion leave WWE. He recounted their past feuds and victories, emphasizing both professional respect and emotional ties.
“That was a tough one for me to see him go, because it was kind of like the last of my really core group of friends. I have friends, obviously, in the locker room and that, but that was my core group of friends. I was like man, I’ve had such great matches with Dolph too. Him putting his career up and me the IC Title. That whole IC title reign he was a big part of elevating that title as well. During that time for me, and so to see him go is tough, but that’s the name of this business, it happens, those type of things happen for me,”
—The Miz, WWE Superstar
Dolph Ziggler’s Career After WWE
Following his exit from WWE, Dolph Ziggler did not step away from the wrestling world. Adopting his real name, Nic Nemeth, he has competed in a number of independent organizations. His journey has taken him to New Japan Pro-Wrestling and Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide, broadening his legacy beyond the Stamford-based company. In 2024, Nemeth joined TNA, continuing to make his mark under a new banner.
Fans caught a glimpse of his WWE history again when Nemeth made a brief one-night appearance on the November 17, 2025, episode of RAW as part of The Last Time Is Now tournament, where he wrestled Solo Sikoa.
Enduring Bonds in a Changing Industry
The Miz’s remarks about Dolph Ziggler’s release provide insight into the lasting relationships forged behind the scenes in WWE. As familiar faces leave and organizations shift, those bonds often transcend business decisions. The Miz on Dolph Ziggler captures a sense of genuine camaraderie and the personal loss that can come when the world of professional wrestling moves forward. With both stars continuing their careers in distinct paths, their legacy as friends and rivals remains a memorable chapter in WWE history.
