Highlights

• Former WWE veteran Shelton Benjamin is uncertain about his future in professional wrestling after being released and is carefully weighing his options.
• Benjamin emphasizes the importance of finding enjoyment and making money in his next career move, seeking appreciation and recognition.
• Many fans and members of the wrestling community want Benjamin to join AEW, but his next destination remains unknown as he explores potential opportunities.

Former WWE veteran and one-time member of The Hurt Business, Shelton Benjamin finds himself at a crossroads after being released in September 2023. Now a free agent, uncertainty looms over his future in professional wrestling. At 48 years old, Benjamin is taking his time to carefully consider his options and make decisions aligned with his personal preferences.

In a recent appearance on The Kurt Angle Show, Benjamin shared his candid thoughts about what lies ahead for him. He admitted, "To be honest, I don’t know. I’m still weighing options." Despite having received inquiries and expressions of interest from different promotions, Benjamin remains uncommitted, with only a few independent dates and numerous autograph sessions on his calendar.

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Why Shelton Benjamin Was Released By WWE In 2010, Explained 

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At this juncture in his illustrious 24-year career, Benjamin emphasizes the importance of finding enjoyment in whatever he chooses to do next. He noted, "I am at a point in my career where I want to have fun. If it’s not worth it, I want to have fun and make money.". Benjamin is not driven by a need to build his name further; instead, he seeks appreciation, recognition, and the opportunity to showcase his skills where he is valued.

He added:

"I’ve never had the superstar complex where, ‘I have to do this.’ No, January 10 marked 24 years in the business for me and I’ve been extremely fortunate with injuries and family life that I can still go out and tear it up with the best of them. I’m just not sure where that’s going to be at this point. I’m taking temperatures all over the place.”

Benjamin acknowledged his good fortune in maintaining both physical health and family balance, allowing him to continue delivering standout performances in the ring. However, the question of where this will happen next remains unanswered.

Fans (And Some Talent) Want Him To Try AEW

There are many in the wrestling community that had shown interest in Benjamin's potential move to AEW even before his release from WWE. There were reports that many behind the scenes there held him in high regard. It's not clear what Tony Khan wants to do or if Benjamin has been offered anything.

As Benjamin takes the time to gauge the temperature of potential opportunities, it will be intriguing to see where he shows up next. Many of the stars released around the same time as he was are now starting to show up in places like TNA and in other places.