WWE Releases Indian Superstar Shanky From The Company
WWE announced the release of Indian wrestler Shanky. Shanky has become a known figure in the world of professional wrestling, especially among fans from the Indian subcontinent. However, the journey from his debut to this recent release has been a whirlwind, filled with moments of pride, teamwork, and passionate in-ring performances.
Gurvinder Singh Malhotra’s (Shanky) foray into wrestling was not something that started on the grand stages of WWE. Instead, he made his mark in India’s Continental Wrestling Entertainment (CWE) in 2015. His massive stature, towering over many, combined with his in-ring agility, made him an immediate attraction in the CWE circuit. As Shanky, he quickly built a reputation as a force to be reckoned with, and it wasn’t long before his performances caught the eye of international wrestling scouts.
The culmination of his hard work and perseverance came in January 2020 when he signed with WWE. For any wrestler, joining WWE is a dream come true. It signifies global recognition and a chance to perform on the biggest wrestling stages around the world.
Just a year into his WWE journey, Malhotra made his in-ring debut at the 2021 WWE Superstar Spectacle, an event specifically designed to showcase talents from India and appeal to the massive fanbase in the country. His first match was a testament to his potential. Partnering with Giant Zanjeer, Rey Mysterio, and Ricochet, Shanky took on a team comprising some of the best in the business: Cesaro, Dolph Ziggler, King Corbin, and Shinsuke Nakamura. Emerging victorious from this bout, Shanky signaled to the world that he wasn’t just another addition to the roster, but a force to be acknowledged.
Post the Superstar Spectacle, Shanky formed a formidable trio alongside Veer and Jinder Mahal on the RAW brand. This teaming showcased a new side to Shanky, revealing a chemistry and dynamic that resonated well with fans. Their alliance was a prominent feature on Monday nights, but like many alliances in the wrestling world, it saw an eventual split. This happened when Veer was drafted to the rival brand, SmackDown, creating a natural divide and sending the teammates on their individual paths.
Shanky’s journey took a brief hiatus post this split. He was absent from the ring, leaving fans curious about his next move. After a break of over 14 months, Shanky made his return to the squared circle, once again at the WWE Superstar Spectacle in 2023, held in India. His return wasn’t a mere formality. He was thrown into the deep end, challenging Gunther for the coveted Intercontinental Championship. While the outcome wasn’t in his favor, the match marked a significant point in his career, as it would be his last for the WWE.
The announcement of Shanky’s release has been met with a mix of shock and disappointment from fans and fellow wrestlers alike. His journey from CWE in India to the grand stages of WWE in a short span has been commendable. It showcased the global appeal of wrestling and WWE’s vision to diversify and appeal to wider audiences.
While the future is uncertain for Shanky, history suggests that talent like he finds its way back into the spotlight. Whether it’s in WWE or elsewhere, fans are hopeful and eager to witness the next chapter in the storied career of Gurvinder Singh Malhotra, the wrestler we all came to admire as Shanky.
