Where are they now? 8 WWE Superstars that were released in 2016

#3 Santino Marella

Santino is now focused on running his own business.

Santino Marella made his WWE debut as a crowd-plant during a 2007 episode of Raw, from Milan, Italy. During the segment, Vince McMahon selected Santino from the crowd, as a “fan” to challenge Umaga for the WWE Intercontinental Championship.

After a little help from Bobby Lashley, Santino defeated Umaga, becoming the new Intercontinental Champion on his WWE debut.

Following his debut, Santino was believed to be a potentially big star. However, it wasn’t long until WWE made the creative decision to utilise Santino for his comedic gift, which turned out to be his best asset.

After a 10-year-run as WWE’s resident comedy relief Superstar, Santino was released along with the others, in 2016.

Since his departure, Santino has turned all of his attention to his business, the Battle Arts Academy, in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. Santino, along with his business partner, opened the Academy in late-2013.

Battle Arts Academy has since served as a resourceful facility for all athletes, including WWE Superstars.

Sportskeeda’s 2-Cents: Santino had the gift of comedy, which he offered to fans for a huge portion of his WWE career. I will always appreciate his ability to insert hilarious antics into the boring parts of live shows.

Santino had a purpose, which he served and did very well while he was with the company. In regards to whether or not I believe he will ever return to the WWE, I honestly do not see him ever wrestling anywhere again. He has previously stated more than once, that he has retired from in-ring work.

His life’s work is now dedicated to the continued success of his Battle Arts Academy.