Celebrity
Mike Santana Reveals Reasons Why He Left All Elite Wrestling
Former Inner Circle member Mike Santana has officially parted ways with All Elite Wrestling (AEW). His absence from the company’s roster page last…
Former Inner Circle member Mike Santana has officially parted ways with All Elite Wrestling (AEW). His absence from the company’s roster page last week and lack of backstage presence for months hinted at his departure.
In a candid interview, he explained the factors that led to his decision, offering insights into his vision for the future and his battles during this transitional period.
This article delves into revelations, exploring the rationale behind his departure, his aspirations, and how he navigated the challenges accompanying this significant career shift.
Mike Santana talked about the reason behind leaving AEW
Based on his recent interview, personal factors and a need for a break from the intense schedule and demands of the wrestling industry primarily drove Santana’s decision to leave (AEW).
Despite being part of the famous Inner Circle faction, he revealed that his departure was not sudden but rather a well-thought-out decision that predated his injury in June 2022.
He candidly admitted that he was dealing with many personal and professional challenges, leading to burnout, and he realized that he needed to step away from AEW to address these issues.
His contract was set to expire in September 2022, and even before his injury, he had already decided not to re-sign with the company. The injury itself compounded an already difficult situation for Santana, adding to his challenges at the time.
He described it as a “very dark time” for him, suggesting that he was grappling with personal struggles that necessitated taking a break from the rigors of professional wrestling.
While Santana was uncertain about AEW’s intentions to re-sign him, he acknowledged that a new deal might have been on the table. However, his priority was not actively pursuing a contract renewal but instead focusing on his well-being and addressing the issues he faced in his personal life.
Mike Santana dealt with a period of unhappiness in his life
Santana’s decision to leave AEW was deeply rooted in unhappiness and personal struggles that extended beyond the professional realm.
Santana described himself as miserable, with his partnership deteriorating and his professional life at AEW stagnating.
As someone who is goal-oriented and driven to reach the industry’s top, the lack of progress and growth took a toll on his overall well-being.
Sitting down for interviews like these is very rare for me but I hope people enjoy and get the overall message.
— Mike SANTANA?? (@Santana_Proud)
Fight for your dreams. Obstacles are there for you to overcome and make you stronger. If YOU WANT IT, you MAKE IT HAPPEN for yourself.
??? pic.twitter.com/CCrTJYKD3q
However, the most significant challenge Santana faced during this time was his ongoing struggle with addiction. He admitted that his addiction issues were becoming increasingly severe, to the point where he would disappear for days without coming home.
In a heartbreaking moment, he revealed that his daughter’s Christmas wish that year was for her “daddy to stop,” Additionally, a letter from his grandmother further highlighted the pain he was causing those around him.
His decision to leave AEW was not solely driven by professional factors but rather a recognition that he needed to prioritize his well-being and address the personal struggles that were causing profound unhappiness.
How Mike Santana saw his future in wresting while struggling
Santana’s struggles extended far beyond just the professional realm of wrestling. When he got injured in June 2022, his mindset needed to be more focused on a potential return to the ring once he recovered.
He revealed that he had been operating in “survival mode” for most of his life, constantly on guard and pushing through day by day, a coping mechanism likely rooted in the challenges he faced during his childhood.
Mike Santana has been a part of All Elite Wrestling from the very beginning (Source: Wrestling Inc.)
He admitted to internalizing and suppressing a lot of trauma and difficult experiences from his upbringing, as his mother had instilled in him the idea that “whatever happens at home, stays at home.”
In this vulnerable state, Santana’s primary concern was not about his future in wrestling or a potential return to the ring after recovering from his injury.
Instead, he was consumed by the need to step away from the demanding world of professional wrestling and focus on addressing his struggles, unhappiness, and the deep-rooted issues that had been weighing him down for years.
Mike Santana addressed his departure in a heartfelt post
Santana’s departure from AEW was addressed in a heartfelt social media post, where he reflected on his journey with the company and expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he had been given.
In his statement, he acknowledged the rollercoaster ride of ups and downs he experienced during his five-year tenure with AEW. Still, he emphasized that it taught him invaluable lessons about himself and the wrestling business.
However, Santana also recognized that there comes a time in life when one must make difficult decisions and take risks to unlock their true potential.
Thank you, EVERYONE. ?? pic.twitter.com/Wy8zUTBCnT
— Mike SANTANA?? (@Santana_Proud)
He firmly believes in the adage, “When one door closes, a bigger door opens,” he expressed excitement for what the future holds for him as he embarks on a new chapter.
In his heartfelt post, he extended his gratitude to various individuals and entities that have played a significant role in his journey. He thanked God and his late father for their guidance and his family for their unwavering support.
Additionally, he acknowledged the fans who have backed him relentlessly, regardless of the circumstances.
Santana also paid tribute to his long-time tag team partner, Ortiz, who shared many memorable moments in AEW. He expressed his appreciation for AEW itself, acknowledging the knowledge and opportunities the company provided him.
Mike Santana’s career
Santana, also known by his ring names “Mike Draztik” and “The RICANstruction,” has had an extensive career in professional wrestling spanning over 16 years.
His wrestling style is described as an “all-ro,der,.” He has worked under the guidance of renowned trainer Magic, honing his craft and developing a repertoire that has earned him nicknames like “The Nasty Assassin” and “The Real Deal.”
Early in his career, Santana made a name for himself on the independent circuit, competing in various promotions before joining forces with Ortiz to form a formidable tag team.
Together, they have had runs in several notable wrestling organizations, including Ring of Honor, Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide, and IMPACT Wrestling, where they debuted in 2017.
Mike Santana with Ortiz (Source: Wrestle Talk)
Santana and Ortiz, known as Proud & Powerful, have enjoyed tremendous success as a tag team, capturing tag team championships in multiple promotions.
In 2019, Santana and Ortiz made their highly anticipated debut in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) at the All Out pay-per-view.
Since then, they have been a mainstay in the AEW roster, engaging in high-profile feuds with Chris Jericho and his stable, The Jericho Appreciation Society.
Despite his successful tag team run with Ortiz, Santana’s recent announcement of pursuing a singles career has generated speculation and excitement about the potential dynamics and storylines within the AEW roster.
Celebrity
Truth About Ryeowook Wedding, Wife, and Gay Rumors
In the high-energy world of K-pop, few vocalists carry as much respect and legacy as Kim Ryeowook. As a cornerstone of the “Kings of Hallyu,” Super Junior, Ryeowook has spent nearly two decades captivating audiences with his crystalline high notes and emotional depth. However, in 2024, the “Little Prince” of K-pop dominated headlines not for a new album, but for a beautiful personal milestone that shook the fandom in the best way possible.
If you’ve been searching for the latest on the Ryeowook wedding or seeking clarity on long-standing rumors like “is Ryeowook gay?”, this article provides the definitive look at his current life and the facts behind the viral news.
Is Ryeowook Married? The Official 2024 Update
For fans wondering “is Ryeowook married?”, the answer is a joyous yes.
On May 26, 2024, Ryeowook officially tied the knot with his long-term girlfriend, Ari (Kim Sun-young), a former member of the K-pop girl group TAHITI. The news was first shared by Ryeowook himself in a heartfelt handwritten letter on Instagram in March 2024. He expressed that after dating for nearly four years, a desire to form a family with her “naturally emerged.”
The wedding was held as a private ceremony in Seoul, attended by close family, friends, and a star-studded guest list from the Korean entertainment industry.
The Viral Ryeowook Wedding: A Historic OT15 Reunion
The Ryeowook wedding became a landmark event for the Super Junior fandom (E.L.F.) because it achieved something many thought impossible: a reunion of all 15 members of Super Junior (past and present).
According to reports from The Times of India and AsiaOne, the attendees included:
- Active Members: Leeteuk, Heechul, Yesung, Shindong, Eunhyuk, Siwon, Donghae, and Kyuhyun.
- Former/Hiatus Members: Han Geng, Kangin, Kibum, and Sungmin.
- Super Junior-M Members: Henry Lau and Zhou Mi.
In a moment that went viral globally, the members took the stage to perform their 2009 mega-hit “Sorry, Sorry,” marking the first time in over a decade that the original lineup was seen supporting one another in such a meaningful way.
Addressing the Speculation: Is Ryeowook Gay?
Throughout his career, the search query “is Ryeowook gay?” has been a common point of curiosity among casual observers. This speculation largely stemmed from K-pop’s unique culture of “skinship” (physical affection between members) and Ryeowook’s “flower boy” aesthetic and sensitive personality.
However, Ryeowook’s relationship history and his marriage to Ari have provided a clear answer to these rumors. The couple went public with their relationship in September 2020 after being introduced by a mutual acquaintance. Since then, Ryeowook has been open about his devotion to his partner, effectively putting an end to the long-standing theories about his sexual orientation.
Who is Ryeowook’s Wife, Ari?
Ari, born in 1994, is a talented artist in her own right. She debuted in 2012 with the group TAHITI and later transitioned into acting and musical theater after the group’s disbandment in 2018. The couple’s shared background in the music and musical theater industry is often cited as a strong foundation for their relationship.
Why This Matters for K-pop Culture
Ryeowook is only the second member of Super Junior to get married (following Sungmin in 2014). In an industry where idols’ personal lives are often strictly managed, Ryeowook’s transparent and celebrated marriage marks a shift toward a healthier “Idol-Fan” relationship.
The support he received from SM Entertainment and the global E.L.F. community shows that fans are increasingly prioritizing the happiness and maturity of their favorite artists. As reported by Pinkvilla, Ryeowook even serenaded his bride with a special song during the ceremony, a moment that fans celebrated as a testament to his character.
Celebrity
Joe Machi Transgender Truth? His Unusual Voice and Demeanor Have Made Fans Question His Sexuality
American stand-up comedian Joe Machi has faced substantial judgment from fans worldwide because of his unusual voice and demeanor. Some fans are even convinced that the talented comedian is indeed a she-man.
How true are these rumors? Is Machi indeed transgender? Find out below!
Machi Told His Parents He Is Gay
In a YouTube video uploaded on March 20, 2019, Machi unveiled how he confessed to his parents he is gay.
However, it was later revealed that this was more of a stunt to see his parent’s reaction to the news.
As per the same video, Machi’s gay friend once told him that he [Machi] could never understand the feeling of confessing about gay sexuality to his parents.
Machi argued that he could because one doesn’t necessarily need to be gay to confess it.
Machi continued that he told his parents he was gay. Later, he came clean to his parents and recanted his words. His father responded that perhaps he [Machi] was right the first time and gay after all.
Fans Think He Is a Transgender
This Week at the Comedy Cellar‘s cast has been facing transgender ridicule for quite some time now—some of his fans are very supportive, and some are neutral regarding his sexuality.
Nevertheless, people do seem to have made up their minds and believe that Machi is transgender.
Machi Jokes About Being Mistaken for a Woman
Because of his high-pitched voice and baffling appearance, the famed stand-up comedian is considered a transgender person.
However, there is no factual proof or statement from Machi’s side to buttress this allegation.
But the comedian has often admitted to being confused for a woman on several occasions, including in Jimmy Fallon’s The Tonight Show.
In another event, while performing stand-up, Marchi shared a funny incident where he was thought to be a female by a stranger.
The stranger thought so after hearing Machi’s voice on the microphone. Later, when Machi met the stranger in person, he was yet again mistaken as the comedian was referred to as “ma’am” by the same stranger.
He also recalled passing through a similarly awkward situation when he visited Disney World a few years ago. In that incident, Machi was acknowledged as “the meanest pregnant lady ever” by a child.
Celebrity
Who Is Madison Elizabeth McMahon’s Boyfriend? Know Her Dating Life and Parents
Madison played volleyball for her university team.
Madison Elizabeth McMahon, sometimes known as Madison McMahon, has been in the public eye from a young age as the daughter of the late Australian-American actor Julian McMahon. She is also known for her own identity as a rising athlete and public figure.
Known for her time on the Wake Forest University volleyball team and her vibrant online presence, Madison has intrigued many with her personal life — especially when it comes to her boyfriend, dating life, and her family background.
Madison McMahon’s Boyfriend and Dating Life
As of now, Madison has not publicly confirmed that she has a boyfriend, keeping her dating life largely out of the spotlight. Her Instagram account, @madison.em, shows glimpses of her personal life, friendships, travel, and athletic pursuits.
However, there are no clear indications of a current relationship. Fans have occasionally speculated about her romantic status based on who she’s seen with on social media, but she appears to value her privacy, especially regarding dating.
While she hasn’t posted any photos hinting at a boyfriend, it’s possible she may be dating someone privately or focusing on her education and athletic career. Given her media presence, it wouldn’t be surprising if she eventually shares her relationship details when she’s ready.
Until then, Madison remains focused on her personal development and staying connected with her followers through her content. To conclude, it’s only fair to assume that Madison isn’t dating a boyfriend at the moment and her relationship status is single.
Meet Madison’s Parents: Daughter of Julian McMahon and Brooke Burns
Madison is the daughter of late actor Julian McMahon and his actress/model wife, Brooke Burns. The two celebrities were married from 1999 until their divorce in 2001. Although their marriage was short-lived, they welcomed Madison in 2000, and both parents remained actively involved in her upbringing.
Julian was best known for his roles in shows like Nip/Tuck, Charmed, and FBI: Most Wanted. Despite the demands of his career, he frequently expressed his love and pride for Madison. In multiple interviews, he shared how fatherhood changed him and how much he cherished spending time with his daughter.
Madison’s mother, Brooke, is also known for her TV career, especially on shows like Baywatch and as the host of game shows such as The Chase. Following her divorce from Julian, she remarried director Gavin O’Connor in 2013.

Madison Elizabeth McMahon taking a selfie with her late father Julian McMahon (Photo: Instagram)
After her parents’ split, Madison maintained strong relationships with both sides of her family. Julian went on to marry Kelly Paniagua, an Australian model and author, in 2014. Madison is also close to her stepmother and can be seen with her in several family outings and holidays.
As for Madison’s ethnicity, she reportedly has a mixed heritage — Australian from her father’s side and American from her mother. She has embraced both identities, as seen in her public appearances and social media presence.
Madison’s Father Illness and Passing
Tragedy struck the McMahon family when Julian passed away in July 2025, leaving fans and loved ones heartbroken. Julian’s death was announced by his third and present wife, Kelly, to Deadline on July 5, 2025. She revealed that Julian had been privately battling cancer.
She told Deadline, “With an open heart, I wish to share with the world that my beloved husband, Julian McMahon, died peacefully this week after a valiant effort to overcome cancer. Julian loved life. He loved his family. He loved his friends.”

Madison Elizabeth McMahon announcing her father Julian McMahon’s death (Photo: Instagram)
“He loved his work, and he loved his fans. His deepest wish was to bring joy into as many lives as possible. We ask for support during this time to allow our family to grieve in privacy. And we wish for all of those to whom Julian brought joy, to continue to find joy in life. We are grateful for the memories,” she concluded.
Following the death of her father, Madison took to her Instagram stories to share the news of her beloved father’s death. She shared a post from Julian’s Instagram handle, that announced his passing, and added it to her story.
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