Ridge Holland Clarifies Charity Promise After GoFundMe Controversy

Ridge Holland is setting the record straight after his GoFundMe controversy blew up online. Earlier in the day, the former WWE star announced that the fundraiser launched for his injury recovery was done without his consent—and said he planned to donate the money to charity once it was returned. But now, he’s changing course in a big way.

Later that same day, Holland jumped back on Twitter to clarify his position and made it very clear that none of the GoFundMe money would be donated. He explained that he’ll only give to charity once he’s back on his feet financially—using money he personally earns.

“I AM NOT DONATING THE GO FUND ME MONEY! Once I am earning money and in a position to donate I will donate to charity. This will be the money I earn not the go fund me money. I am not a scammer.”

Before this abrupt change of tone, Holland’s original remarks painted a very different picture. He publicly thanked fans for their generosity but clarified that the GoFundMe was created without his knowledge or approval. At the time, he said he planned to return the money and donate it to charity once the situation was sorted out.

“Thank you all for the incredible support shown through the GoFundMe campaign. However, I want to clarify that I was not aware the page was going live — and had no prior discussion with the family member who created it. I’ve since requested that no further donations be accepted, and this change should take effect within the next 24 hours.”

He also added that his intention was never to cause confusion or offend anyone:

“Once we figure out how to move forward — and I recoup the amount donated — I will be donating said amount to charity. I sincerely apologize if the page caused any upset or offense — that was never the intention. Thank you for your understanding and kindness.”

The update came after confusion among fans who thought Holland would be returning all donations for charity. His clarification quickly spread, with supporters applauding his honesty while others questioned why he changed his stance so fast.

The GoFundMe in question was allegedly set up by a family member without Holland’s approval. In his original post, he explained that he had “no prior discussion” about it going live and had already requested that donations stop being accepted.

This latest twist adds to what’s already been a stressful time for the former WWE star. Holland is currently recovering from a severe neck injury and previously admitted he may need fusion surgery—something that’s kept him out of the ring and off the road since his WWE release.

Despite the confusion, Holland’s blunt follow-up shows he’s focused on getting back on track and protecting his reputation.

Do you think Ridge Holland made the right call by keeping the GoFundMe funds for recovery instead of donating them? Drop your thoughts below and let us know what you think.