A former WWE star has shed new light on the circumstances surrounding his departure. He revealed that a backstage issue during a live event may have played a key role in his release.
While details around exits are often kept under wraps, this account offers a rare look behind the curtain. Or, in this case, what happened when things didn’t go according to the script inside the ring.
Gzim Selmani (Rezar) Opens Up About Backstage Altercation Leading to WWE Exit
Speaking to Ariel Helwani, Gzim Selmani — formerly known as Rezar of Authors of Pain — described a backstage altercation stemming from an in-ring incident during WWE’s Holiday Tour in December 2024.
According to Selmani, the situation began when a member of The Wyatt Sicks attempted to change planned spots mid-match. For Selmani, that crossed a clear line.
“There was an incident — very unprofessional,” he said. “Somebody tried to switch up the match during the match… That’s just a no-go for me.”
He also stressed that the issue wasn’t about taking damage or losing, but about professionalism and sticking to the agreed structure. Selmani noted that he had no problem enduring tough sequences, adding, “Even if I have to take a beating… I do it.”
The frustration appeared to escalate backstage, where Selmani confronted the individual involved. While he didn’t name the wrestler, he made it clear the disagreement was direct and immediate. He also stated that he would address such situations face-to-face.
Reports indicate that the conflict involved hesitation over taking repeated high-impact moves, including a double spinebuster. Selmani suggested that concerns over physicality shouldn’t lead to changes being made on the fly — especially during a live match.
Shortly after the incident, Authors of Pain were released in February 2025, marking the end of their second WWE run alongside Karrion Kross as part of The Final Testament.
Selmani has since transitioned to combat sports, recently scoring a knockout victory in his bare-knuckle fighting debut.
In wrestling, calling an audible can sometimes save a match — but in this case, it may have cost a chapter in a career.
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