Challenges in the Life of LA Knight in a Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped LA Knight's life and career.

Shaun Edward Ricker, known as LA Knight in WWE, is an American professional wrestler and actor currently performing on SmackDown. He is the current WWE United States Champion, holding the title for the second time. Knight is known for his charismatic persona and in-ring skills, quickly gaining popularity within WWE.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles

January 4, 2005: Loses HWA Television Championship

On January 4, 2005, Deuce lost the HWA Television Championship.

August 1, 2014: Released from WWE Contract

On August 1, 2014, Slate Randall was released from his WWE contract due to disagreements with WWE management.

2014: Release from WWE

In 2014, Shaun Ricker was released from his WWE contract after performing as Slate Randall.

2016: Various matches, feuds, and segments

Throughout 2016, Eli Drake cashed in his Feast or Fired briefcase to become TNA King of the Mountain Champion, retained the title at Slammiversary, and feuded with James Storm, losing the title to him in August. Drake also entered the Impact Grand Championship tournament, participated in the Bound for Gold Gauntlet (winning it), and feuded with Ethan Carter III.

May 11, 2019: Fatal Four Way Loss

On May 11, 2019, Drake participated in a fatal four way at Maverick Pro Wrestling's event.

January 2020: GLOW Season Four Shooting

In January 2020, Ricker shot scenes for the fourth season of the Netflix dramedy GLOW as DJ Henderson, but the show was cancelled before airing.

February 14, 2021: Quietly Released from NWA

On February 14, 2021, it was announced that Eli Drake had been quietly released from the NWA in late 2020, months after signing a new deal.

January 28, 2023: Loss to Bray Wyatt at Royal Rumble

On January 28, 2023, LA Knight lost to Bray Wyatt in a Mountain Dew Pitch Black match at the Royal Rumble.

2023: Criticism of WWE's Booking of Knight

Throughout 2023, WWE's poor booking of LA Knight, including a high rate of losses and missed opportunities, drew criticism from fans, critics, and wrestling personalities.

January 5, 2024: Triple Threat Match Ends in No Contest

On January 5, 2024, LA Knight faced Randy Orton and AJ Styles in a triple threat match on SmackDown to determine the number one contender for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship, but the match ended in a no contest after an attack by The Bloodline.

January 10, 2025: United States Championship Rematch

On January 10, 2025, LA Knight had a rematch against Shinsuke Nakamura for the United States Championship, which ended in a disqualification victory for Knight after an attack by Tama Tonga and Jacob Fatu.