Jinder Mahal

Yuvraj Singh Dhesi{{cite news|last=Deb|first=Sopan|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/08/18/arts/television/jinder-mahal-wwe-summerslam-india.html|title=How Jinder Mahal, an Indian WWE Star, Is Turning Up the Heat|date=August 18, 2017|access-date=May 28, 2018|work=The New York Times|archive-date=May 29, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180529131848/https://www.nytimes.com/2017/08/18/arts/television/jinder-mahal-wwe-summerslam-india.html|url-status=live}} was born in Calgary on July 19, 1986.{{cite web|url=http://www.igf.jp/fighter/raj-singh/|script-title=ja:ラジャ・シン|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150621185938/http://www.igf.jp/fighter/raj-singh/|archive-date=June 21, 2015|access-date=May 28, 2018|publisher=Inoki Genome Federation|language=ja}} He is of Indian (Punjabi) Sikh descent. He holds a business degree in communications and culture from the University of Calgary.{{Cite news|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2017/05/25/jinder-mahal-wwe-alberta-legislature_n_16811178.html|title=Jinder Mahal's WWE Win Officially Recognized In The Alberta Legislature|date=May 25, 2017|work=HuffPost Canada|access-date=April 10, 2018|language=en-CA|archive-date=April 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180410201614/https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2017/05/25/jinder-mahal-wwe-alberta-legislature_n_16811178.html|url-status=live}} His uncle, Gama Singh, was considered a legendary wrestling villain in the original Stampede Wrestling and wrestled around the world (and briefly for the WWF, now WWE) in the 1980s.

Growing up in a wrestling family, Dhesi began his professional wrestling career at the Martial Arts Fitness Center in Calgary, training with Rick Bognar.{{cite news|url=http://www.calgarysun.com/2017/05/22/jinder-mahal-first-calgarian-professional-wrestler-to-win-wwe-championship-since-bret-hart-20-years-ago|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729094646/http://www.calgarysun.com/2017/05/22/jinder-mahal-first-calgarian-professional-wrestler-to-win-wwe-championship-since-bret-hart-20-years-ago|title=Jinder Mahal first Calgarian professional wrestler to win WWE Championship since Bret Hart 20 years ago|newspaper=Calgary Sun|first=Anna|last=Brooks|archive-date=July 29, 2017|access-date=June 6, 2017}} He debuted in Premier Martial Arts Wrestling (PMW) as "Raj Dhesi" and then went on to train with Allen Coage and Gerry Morrow, wrestling in a revived Stampede Wrestling alongside fellow future WWE wrestlers Natalya, Tyson Kidd, and Viktor.{{cite web|url=https://cdn.espn.com/wwe/story/_/id/19497591/wwe-jinder-mahal-embraces-new-success-sticking-got-there|title=Jinder Mahal embraces new success by sticking to what got him there|publisher=ESPN|access-date=June 6, 2017|date=May 30, 2017|archive-date=June 24, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170624121229/http://cdn.espn.go.com/wwe/story/_/id/19497591/wwe-jinder-mahal-embraces-new-success-sticking-got-there|url-status=live}} As "Tiger Raj Singh", he won various tag team championships in Stampede and Prairie Wrestling Alliance (PWA), spending much of his early career teaming with his cousin Gama Singh Jr. They were known as The New Karachi Vice and also as Sikh & Destroy, winning the PWA Canadian Tag Team Championship.{{cite news|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2007/05/20/4195268.html|title=Gama Singh made Great choices outside the ring|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|date=May 20, 2007|access-date=June 6, 2017|archive-date=July 24, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170724053347/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2007/05/20/4195268.html|url-status=dead}} In PWA, he was the PWA Heavyweight Champion from 2008 until January 2010{{cite web|url=http://pwawrestling.ca/site2/?page_id=253|title=PWA Heavyweight Championship|publisher=Prairie Wrestling Alliance|access-date=February 28, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100306054917/http://pwawrestling.ca/site2/?page_id=253|archive-date=March 6, 2010}} and also spent time in Great North Wrestling (GNW), where he feuded with wrestlers such as Hannibal and Samoa Joe.{{Cite news|url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/wwe-news-rare-video-of-jinder-mahal-samoa-joe-match-surfaces|title=WWE News: Rare video of Jinder Mahal - Samoa Joe match surfaces|date=September 11, 2017|access-date=April 12, 2018|archive-date=April 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180412150132/https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/wwe-news-rare-video-of-jinder-mahal-samoa-joe-match-surfaces|url-status=live}}

File:JinderMahal.jpg

Dhesi tried out for WWE's developmental promotion Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW).{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2010/02/21/12969671.html|title=Tiger Raj Singh ready for WWE experience|author=Oliver, Greg|publisher=Slam! Wrestling|access-date=August 9, 2017|date=February 23, 2010|archive-date=July 17, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170717031914/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2010/02/21/12969671.html|url-status=dead}} At the tryout, he believed that his Punjabi gimmick and promos made him stand out, stating that he "came out wearing a turban and had [his] full outfit on" and that "they like guys who speak different languages and have different looks". In February 2010, he signed to a developmental contract with FCW under the ring name Jinder Mahal and wrestled there for a year.

File:Jinder-Mahal-2012.jpg character, Mahal began wearing his signature pre-match attire]]

Mahal made his televised WWE debut on the April 29, 2011, episode of SmackDown, greeting backstage fellow Indian wrestler The Great Khali and his manager Ranjin Singh by speaking in Punjabi that he was really happy and excited to see Khali and Ranjin.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/23150-smackdown-results-4-29-11/|title=Smackdown Results – 4/29/11|work=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=April 30, 2011|archive-date=August 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170809214357/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/23150-smackdown-results-4-29-11/|url-status=live}} The next week on SmackDown, Mahal, unimpressed by how Khali and Singh have been partaking in childish activities instead of winning matches, confronted Singh about his mismanagement of Khali, establishing himself as a heel.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/23316-smackdown-results-5-6-11/|title=Smackdown Results – 5/6/11|work=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=May 6, 2011|archive-date=July 31, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170731162640/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/23316-smackdown-results-5-6-11/|url-status=live}} Mahal interrupted a Khali Kiss Cam segment the following week on SmackDown, slapping Khali twice.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/23476-smackdown-results-5-13-11/|title=Smackdown Results – 5/13/11|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=May 13, 2011|archive-date=August 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170809211443/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/23476-smackdown-results-5-13-11/|url-status=live}} On the May 20 episode of SmackDown, Mahal interrupted Khali's match against Jey Uso, leading to Khali confronting Mahal.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/23650-smackdown-results-5-20-11/|title=Smackdown Results – 5/20/11|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=May 21, 2011|archive-date=August 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170809214248/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/23650-smackdown-results-5-20-11/|url-status=live}} On his first televised match on the June 17 episode of SmackDown, Mahal defeated Vladimir Kozlov{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/24311-smackdown-results-6-17-11/|title=Smackdown Results – 6/17/11|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=June 17, 2011|archive-date=August 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170809214242/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/24311-smackdown-results-6-17-11/|url-status=live}} and on the July 1 episode of SmackDown it was revealed that Mahal was married to Khali's sister, making them (kayfabe) brothers-in-law.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/24694-smackdown-results-7-1-11/|title=Smackdown Results – 7/1/11|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=July 2, 2011|archive-date=August 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170809212414/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/24694-smackdown-results-7-1-11/|url-status=live}} On the September 5 episode of Raw, he suffered his first loss when he and Khali lost to WWE Tag Team Champions Evan Bourne and Kofi Kingston in a non-title match.{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_52971.shtml|title=CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 9/5: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw Supershow on USA Network|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=July 27, 2017|archive-date=August 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170809212054/http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_52971.shtml|url-status=live}} In a rematch on SmackDown, they lost again to Bourne and Kingston, leading Khali to walk away from Mahal after the match, thus ending their alliance.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/26576-smackdown-results-9-9-11/|title=Smackdown Results – 9/9/11|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=September 10, 2011|archive-date=August 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170809214226/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/26576-smackdown-results-9-9-11/|url-status=live}} On the September 16 episode of SmackDown, Mahal attacked Khali during his match with Heath Slater which Khali won by disqualification.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/26756-smackdown-results-9-16-11/|title=Smackdown Results – 9/16/11|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=September 17, 2011|archive-date=October 26, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161026022200/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/26756-smackdown-results-9-16-11/|url-status=live}} On the September 23 episode of SmackDown, Mahal suffered his first loss in a singles match to Khali.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/26934-smackdown-results-9-23-11/|title=Smackdown Results – 9/23/11|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=September 23, 2011|archive-date=August 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170809214314/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/26934-smackdown-results-9-23-11/|url-status=live}} On the October 14 episode of SmackDown, Mahal competed in a 41-man battle royal and Mahal made it to the final three before being eliminated by Randy Orton.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/27469-smackdown-results-10-14-11/|title=Smackdown Results – 10/14/11|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=October 14, 2011|archive-date=August 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170809214320/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/27469-smackdown-results-10-14-11/|url-status=live}}

In November, Mahal targeted wrestlers whom he deemed as beneath him or embarrassing and in November began a feud with Ted DiBiase.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1322303404|title=Smackdown Results – 11/25/11|date=November 25, 2011|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|access-date=January 26, 2012|publisher=WrestleView|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111203200818/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1322303404|archive-date=December 3, 2011}} On the December 30 episode of Smackdown, Mahal broke DiBiase's winning streak via submission to end their feud.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_56444.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE SmackDown Results 12/30: Complete "virtual time" coverage of Smackdown on Syfy – Orton vs. Barrett 2011 finale|date=December 30, 2011|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=January 26, 2012|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=January 8, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120108123139/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_56444.shtml|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwestatistics/article_56459.shtml|title=12/30 WWE SmackDown Box Score: Snapshot of Friday's show – match times, Win/Loss Records, Streaks (tons of W/L Streaks to close 2011)|date=December 31, 2012|access-date=June 3, 2012|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|quote=DiBiase – snapped 8 match winning streak|archive-date=March 1, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120301181125/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwestatistics/article_56459.shtml|url-status=live}} In December, Mahal tried to make a name for himself and went after Sheamus, constantly disrespecting him, but was defeated and for several months they were involved in multiple matches, with Sheamus always getting the best of Mahal.{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net//?id=2&nr=6171&view=&page=4&gimmick=&year=&promotion=®ion=&location=&arena=&showtype=TV-Show%7CPay+Per+View&constellationType=Singles&worker=Sheamus|title=Jinder Mahal vs. Sheamus|publisher=Cagematch|access-date=July 27, 2017|archive-date=September 3, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230903210326/https://www.cagematch.net//?id=2&nr=6171&view=&page=4&gimmick=&year=&promotion=®ion=&location=&arena=&showtype=TV-Show%7CPay+Per+View&constellationType=Singles&worker=Sheamus|url-status=live}} At Mahal's first Royal Rumble on January 29, 2012, he was eliminated by The Great Khali,{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=Caldwell's WWE Royal Rumble report 1/29: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV – Rumble match, Punk-Ziggler, Cena-Kane, steel cage|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_57526.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=January 30, 2012|archive-date=December 11, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181211044443/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_57526.shtml|url-status=live}} rekindling their feud and leading to a match on the February 3 episode of SmackDown, which Mahal lost.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/30144-smackdown-results-2-3-12/|title=Smackdown Results – 2/3/12|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=February 4, 2012|archive-date=August 21, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170821090549/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/30144-smackdown-results-2-3-12/|url-status=live}} At Over the Limit on May 20, Mahal participated in and lost a battle royal match where the winner was to receive a shot at the Intercontinental Championship or the United States Championship when he was again eliminated by The Great Khali.{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE OVER THE LIMIT PPV REPORT 5/20: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV – Cena-Johnny, Punk-Bryan|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_61620.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=May 20, 2012|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303202209/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_61620.shtml|url-status=live}}

In late April, Mahal began confronting several wrestlers, starting with Randy Orton, interrupting one of his promos and being attacked in retaliation with an RKO.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/32199-smackdown-results-4-27-12/|title=Smackdown Results – 4/27/12|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=April 28, 2012|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825233529/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/32199-smackdown-results-4-27-12/|url-status=live}} On July 23 at Raw 1000, Mahal confronted Kane, leading a group consisting of Camacho, Curt Hawkins, Drew McIntyre, Hunico and Tyler Reks and claiming none of them had been given an opportunity within WWE and would make one by taking down Kane, but The Undertaker's sudden appearance halted their advance and The Brothers of Destruction attacked the group and took them out.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/34391-raw-1000-results-7-23-12/|title=Raw 1,000 Results – 7/23/12|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=July 23, 2012|archive-date=August 12, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170812101648/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/34391-raw-1000-results-7-23-12/|url-status=live}} On the July 27 episode of SmackDown, Mahal lost to Ryback by countout{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/34503-smackdown-results-7-27-12/|title=Smackdown Results – 7/27/12|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=July 28, 2012|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825234907/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/34503-smackdown-results-7-27-12/|url-status=live}} and then began a feud with him, winning by intentional countout and disqualification.{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=6171&view=&page=4&gimmick=&year=&promotion=®ion=&location=&arena=&showtype=TV-Show%7CPay+Per+View&constellationType=Singles&worker=Ryback|title=Jinder Mahal vs. Ryback|publisher=Cagematch|access-date=July 27, 2017|archive-date=May 17, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220517203244/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=6171&view=&page=4&gimmick=&year=&promotion=®ion=&location=&arena=&showtype=TV-Show%7CPay+Per+View&constellationType=Singles&worker=Ryback|url-status=live}} To try and prove himself to Ryback, Mahal requested a match against two local wrestlers in a match style similar to Ryback's, defeating them quickly by submission.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/34849-smackdown-results-8-10-12/|title=Smackdown Results – 8/10/12|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=August 11, 2012|archive-date=August 24, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170824012749/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/34849-smackdown-results-8-10-12/|url-status=live}} In spite of this, Mahal continued his feud with Ryback, attacking him during their matches and after Ryback's, but was ultimately pinned by Ryback on the August 24 episode of SmackDown to end their feud.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/35218-smackdown-results-8-24-12/|title=Smackdown Results – 8/24/12|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=July 27, 2017|date=August 24, 2012|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825234549/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/35218-smackdown-results-8-24-12/|url-status=live}}

When WWE rebranded its developmental territory FCW into NXT,{{cite web|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/118-daily-updates/27030-wwe-news-fcw-name-being-phased-out|title=WWE News: FCW name being phased out|access-date=June 7, 2013|work=Wrestling Observer Newsletter|archive-date=June 3, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130603005943/http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/118-daily-updates/27030-wwe-news-fcw-name-being-phased-out|url-status=live}} Mahal began appearing on the rebooted NXT, where he started a winning streak by defeating several wrestlers, including Derrick Bateman and Percy Watson.{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_63126.shtml|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 7/4 – Week 3: Chris Hero (Ohno) debuts, Vader's son, Bateman, six-man main event; Overall Reax|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=September 8, 2012|archive-date=March 6, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306043221/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_63126.shtml|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 7/18 – Week 5: Gabriel vs. Slater main event, Steamboat, Vickie's daughter, Overall Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_63686.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 9, 2012|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304002704/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_63686.shtml|url-status=live}} On the August 8 episode of NXT, Mahal was inserted into the Gold Rush tournament to crown the first NXT Champion, where he defeated Bo Dallas in the first round.{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT RESULTS 8 // 8 – Week 8: Gold Rush tournament continues, Hero, Paige, Gabriel vs. McGillicutty, Overall Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_64301.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=September 8, 2012|archive-date=August 22, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120822000731/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_64301.shtml|url-status=live}} On the August 15 episode of NXT, Mahal defeated Richie Steamboat in the semi-finals of the Gold Rush Tournament.{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 8/15 – Week 9: Gold Rush tournament continues, Scotty 2 Hotty cameo, Overall Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_64512.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 31, 2012|archive-date=October 6, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006074651/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_64512.shtml|url-status=live}} On the August 29 episode of NXT, Mahal was defeated by Seth Rollins in the finals of the Gold Rush Tournament, thus ending his NXT winning streak.{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 8/29 – Week 11: First NXT champion crowned in big-match setting|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_64831.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=September 8, 2012|archive-date=October 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131002085156/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_64831.shtml|url-status=live}} At the Night of Champions pre-show on September 16, Mahal competed in the 16-man battle royal to become number one contender for the United States Championship, but was eliminated by Brodus Clay.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_65243.shtml|title=CALDWELL'S WWE NIGHT OF CHAMPIONS PPV REPORT 9/16: Complete 'virtual time' coverage of live PPV – Punk vs. Cena, six title matches|first=James|last=Caldwell|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=September 16, 2012|access-date=November 26, 2015|archive-date=April 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190403121633/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_65243.shtml|url-status=live}}

File:3MB at WM30.jpg and Heath Slater) at WrestleMania XXX in April 2014]]

On the September 21 episode of SmackDown, Mahal and Drew McIntyre interfered in Heath Slater's match against Brodus Clay by attacking Clay.{{cite web|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|title=Smackdown Results – 9/21/12|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1348284153|access-date=December 8, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121030092131/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1348284153|archive-date=October 30, 2012}} The alliance of Mahal, Slater and McIntyre were later named 3MB.{{cite web|last=Stephens|first=David|title=Raw Results – 10/15/12|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1350357467|work=Wrestleview|access-date=December 9, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121222193138/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1350357467|archive-date=December 22, 2012}} From October 2012, 3MB racked up many wins against Team Co-Bro (Santino Marella and Zack Ryder) and The Usos (Jey and Jimmy Uso), all of them due to illegal interference.{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE SURVIVOR SERIES PPV REPORT 11/18: Complete "virtual time" coverage of live PPV – Punk-Cena-Ryback|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_66714.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=December 9, 2012|archive-date=September 21, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130921215206/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_66714.shtml|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S SATURDAY SLAM RESULTS 11/24: Usos vs. 3MB main event, pie-eating contest, no Cena|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_66819.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=December 9, 2012|archive-date=December 4, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121204214224/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_66819.shtml|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Parks|first=Greg|title=PARKS' WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 12/7: Complete coverage of the Friday night show, including Sheamus vs. Alberto Del Rio, Randy Orton vs. Wade Barrett|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_67085.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=December 9, 2012|archive-date=December 31, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121231043836/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_67085.shtml|url-status=live}} At the Survivor Series pre-show on November 18, Mahal and Slater defeated Marella and Ryder when Mahal pinned Ryder.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/2012/3mb-santino-marella-zack-ryder-26068586|title=3MB def. Team Co-Bro|publisher=WWE|access-date=November 18, 2012|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303221028/http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/2012/3mb-santino-marella-zack-ryder-26068586|url-status=live}} At TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs on December 16, 3MB were defeated by the team of Alberto Del Rio, The Brooklyn Brawler and The Miz.{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE TLC PPV RESULTS 12/16: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of final 2012 PPV – Cena vs. Ziggler main event, Shield makes a statement|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_67280.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=December 17, 2012|archive-date=July 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190703163344/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_67280.shtml|url-status=live}} The next night on Raw at the Slammy Awards show, 3MB lost to Del Rio, Miz and Tommy Dreamer.{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=Caldwell's WWE Raw Results 12/17: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw – The strangest show of the year concludes with the debut of a new monster heel; Ric Flair returns|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_67322.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=December 26, 2012|archive-date=January 30, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130130195553/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_67322.shtml|url-status=live}} Mahal competed in the 30-man Royal Rumble match at the Royal Rumble on January 27, 2013, by entering at number 27, but was eliminated by Sheamus.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2013/royal-rumble-match-26080784|title=30-Man Royal Rumble Match|publisher=WWE|access-date=January 27, 2013|archive-date=December 18, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151218152124/http://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2013/royal-rumble-match-26080784|url-status=live}} On the April 12 episode of SmackDown, in an attempt to make a name for themselves, 3MB tried to attack Triple H, but were attacked themselves by The Shield (Dean Ambrose, Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins).{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_69993.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - PARKS' WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 4/12: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of Friday night show, including Dolph Ziggler's first Smackdown as champion and Triple H addresses Lesnar match|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=September 1, 2019|archive-date=April 19, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210419130224/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_69993.shtml|url-status=live}} On the April 15 episode of Raw, 3MB called out The Shield, only for Brock Lesnar to come out instead and attack the group.{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 4/15: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw – Lesnar returns, Punk walks away, WM29 fallout, new U.S. champion, more|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_70029.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=April 15, 2013|archive-date=January 16, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170116093554/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_70029.shtml|url-status=live}} At the Night of Champions pre-show on September 15, 3MB (Drew McIntyre and Heath Slater) competed in a number one contenders tag team turmoil match for the WWE Tag Team Championship, in which they were the last team eliminated by Tons of Funk (Brodus Clay and Tensai).{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_73319.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE NOC PPV RESULTS 9/15 (Pre-Show): Night of Champions kicks off with five-team #1 contender match|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=September 1, 2019|archive-date=March 5, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210305215432/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_73319.shtml|url-status=live}}

In late 2013, 3MB began adopting new ring names against their opponents, although their misfortunes and amounting losses remained the same.{{cite web|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|title=WWE Raw Results – 11/11/13 (2-on-3 Handicap match)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/44916|publisher=WrestleView|access-date=November 11, 2013|archive-date=December 24, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131224114626/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/44916|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 11/18 (Hour 1): Authority returns, new IC champ, Big Show vs. Ryback, Musical Chairs, more|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_74629.shtml|publisher=PWTorch|access-date=November 18, 2013|archive-date=November 22, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131122114339/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_74629.shtml|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_74711.shtml|title=Parks' WWE SmackDown Report 11/22: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of Friday show, including Daniel Bryan vs. Luke Harper rematch|author=Parks, Greg|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=November 22, 2013|access-date=November 22, 2013|archive-date=December 1, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131201045659/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_74711.shtml|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Parks|first=Greg|title=Parks's WWE SmackDown report 11/29: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of Friday show, including Cody Rhodes & Goldust vs. The Shield in a Tag Team Championship Match|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_74847.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=November 29, 2013|archive-date=December 3, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203070447/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_74847.shtml|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 12/31: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of New Year's Eve episode – Champion's Choice Night ends with Cena dressing down Ziggler|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_67506.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=December 31, 2012|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304094646/http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_67506.shtml|url-status=live}} At WrestleMania XXX on April 6, Mahal competed in the André the Giant Memorial battle royal, but was eliminated by Mark Henry.{{cite web|title=Andre the Giant memorial battle royal|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestlemania-30-ppv-results/47771-andre-the-giant-memorial-battle-royal|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=April 6, 2014|archive-date=June 26, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150626110833/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestlemania-30-ppv-results/47771-andre-the-giant-memorial-battle-royal|url-status=live}} In April, 3MB formed an alliance with Hornswoggle to feud with Los Matadores (Diego and Fernando).{{cite web|url=https://www.cagesideseats.com/2014/4/15/5616178/wwe-main-event-results-live-blog-for-april-15-2014-big-show-vs-jack-swagger|title=WWE Main Event results, live blog for April 15, 2014: Jack Swagger vs. Big Show|publisher=Cagesideseats|access-date=April 15, 2014|date=April 15, 2014|archive-date=April 16, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140416180033/http://www.cagesideseats.com/2014/4/15/5616178/wwe-main-event-results-live-blog-for-april-15-2014-big-show-vs-jack-swagger|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|title=WWE Raw Results – 4/21/14 (John Cena vs. Wyatt Family)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/48085-wwe-raw-results-4-21-14-live-results-from-baltimore|access-date=April 21, 2014|publisher=WrestleView|archive-date=April 23, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140423223501/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/48085-wwe-raw-results-4-21-14-live-results-from-baltimore|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/48210-wwe-raw-results-4-28-14-live-results-from-st-louis/|title=WWE RAW Results – 4/28/14 (Randy Orton vs. Roman Reigns)|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=April 28, 2014|archive-date=April 29, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140429131435/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/48210-wwe-raw-results-4-28-14-live-results-from-st-louis|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/48778-wwe-smackdown-results-5-30-14-bray-wyatt-vs-jimmy-uso/|title=WWE Smackdown Results – 5/30/14 (Wyatt vs. Jimmy Uso)|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=May 30, 2014|archive-date=May 31, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140531182044/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/48778-wwe-smackdown-results-5-30-14-bray-wyatt-vs-jimmy-uso|url-status=live}} On June 12, Mahal was released from his WWE contract.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/wwe-releases-superstars|title=WWE releases Superstars|date=June 12, 2014|access-date=June 12, 2014|publisher=WWE|archive-date=June 12, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140612153322/http://www.wwe.com/inside/wwe-releases-superstars|url-status=live}}

File:Jinder Mahal 2015.jpg

Dhesi wrestled for Reality of Wrestling (ROW) under the name Raj Singh at their summer iPPV, ROW Summer of Champions 2014, defeating Jasper Davis.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_79853.shtm|title=Parks's Reality of Wrestling "Summer Of Champions" iPPV Review - ROW Title Steel Cage Match, appearances by Teddy Long, DDP, Brother Devon, others|date=July 28, 2014|website=PW Torch|access-date=April 12, 2018}}{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} On October 24 at All Star Wrestling (ASW) in Vancouver, BC at the live event Fright Night Live, Singh teamed with his cousin Gama Singh Jr. to defeat Kyle Sebastian and Collin Cutler to win the ASW Tag Team Championship. Between 2014 and 2015, he appeared in Puerto Rican promotion the World Wrestling Council (WWC) against local star Ray González.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=122557|title=WWC « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database|last=Kreikenbohm|first=Philip|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=April 13, 2018|archive-date=September 3, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230903210327/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=122557|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=123049|title=WWC Euphoria - Tag 1 « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database|last=Kreikenbohm|first=Philip|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=April 13, 2018|archive-date=September 3, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230903210326/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=123049|url-status=live}} He also participated in Qatar Pro Wrestling (QPW) Souq Waqif Championship tournament in April 2015, where he ended up as first runner up.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=26&nr=3321|title=QPW Souq Waqif Title Tournament « Tournaments Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database|last=Kreikenbohm|first=Philip|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=April 13, 2018|archive-date=June 9, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190609185032/https://www.cagematch.net//?id=26&nr=3321|url-status=live}} On May 5, Singh made his debut for Japanese promotion Inoki Genome Federation (IGF), losing to Wang Bin.{{cite web|url=http://www.igf.jp/event/genome33/|title=Genome33|access-date=June 21, 2015|work=Inoki Genome Federation|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150510100423/http://www.igf.jp/event/genome33/|archive-date=May 10, 2015|url-status=dead}} In 2016, he also wrestled for The Great Khali's wrestling promotion Continental Wrestling Entertainment (CWE) in India.{{cite news|url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/community/it-s-time-to-pay-back-to-punjab-says-great-khali/194613.html|title=It's time to pay back to Punjab, says Great Khali|newspaper=The Tribune (Chandigarh)|date=February 11, 2016|location=Punjab|access-date=April 11, 2016|archive-date=June 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612143612/http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/community/it-s-time-to-pay-back-to-punjab-says-great-khali/194613.html|url-status=live}}

In a 2017 interview on Chris Jericho's Talk is Jericho podcast, Mahal revealed that he "hit rock bottom" during his time in the independent circuit. He also mentioned that he stopped drinking alcohol and began working out and eating cleaner, losing 20 pounds in the process, two months prior to WWE calling him to return.{{cite web|title=Written Podcast Recap: Talk Is Jericho w/ Jinder Mahal on Vince McMahon writing his promos, trying to become a hated heel, almost joining Impact|url=https://www.pwpodcasts.com/2017/05/23/written-podcast-recap-talk-jericho-w-jinder-mahal-vince-mcmahon-writing-promos-trying-become-hated-heel-almost-joining-impact/|access-date=December 29, 2017|date=May 23, 2017|archive-date=December 29, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171229231553/https://www.pwpodcasts.com/2017/05/23/written-podcast-recap-talk-jericho-w-jinder-mahal-vince-mcmahon-writing-promos-trying-become-hated-heel-almost-joining-impact/|url-status=live}}

On July 27, Mahal re-signed with the WWE.{{cite web|url=http://pwinsider.com/article/103648/latest-former-wwe-names-set-to-return-and-more-.html?p=1|title=LATEST FORMER WWE NAMES SET TO RETURN AND MORE|publisher=Pro Wrestling Inside|access-date=July 27, 2016|archive-date=July 30, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160730114215/http://www.pwinsider.com/article/103648/latest-former-wwe-names-set-to-return-and-more-.html?p=1|url-status=live}} On the August 1 episode of Raw, Mahal returned to television alongside Heath Slater, demanding contracts until Raw General Manager Mick Foley informed the pair that they had to face each other in a match for a Raw contract, which Mahal won.{{cite web|title=WWE RAW Results – 8/1/16 (Live results from Atlanta, Brock Lesnar's first appearance since WrestleMania)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/65189-wwe-raw-results-8116-live-results-atlanta-brock-lesnars-first-appearance-since-wrestlemania/|website=WrestleView|access-date=August 3, 2016|date=August 2016|archive-date=August 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160814134435/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/65189-wwe-raw-results-8116-live-results-atlanta-brock-lesnars-first-appearance-since-wrestlemania/|url-status=live}} Throughout the rest of the month on Raw, Mahal began losing to the likes of Neville,{{cite web|last1=Caldwell|first1=James|title=8/15 WWE Raw Results – CALDWELL'S Complete Live TV Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/15/aug15rawresultsfinal/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 15, 2016|archive-date=August 20, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160820115600/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/15/aug15rawresultsfinal/|url-status=live}} Sami Zayn{{cite web|last1=Keller|first1=Wade|title=KELLER'S WWE RAW REVIEW 8/29: Ongoing coverage of fatal four way for the WWE Universal Title|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/29/kellers-wwe-raw-review-829-ongoing-coverage-fatal-four-way-wwe-universal-title-match-kevin-owens-seth-rollins-roman-reigns-big-cass/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 29, 2016|archive-date=September 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160904140158/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/29/kellers-wwe-raw-review-829-ongoing-coverage-fatal-four-way-wwe-universal-title-match-kevin-owens-seth-rollins-roman-reigns-big-cass/|url-status=live}} and Darren Young.{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=9/5 WWE Raw Results – CALDWELL'S Complete Live TV Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/09/05/sept5rawresults/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=September 5, 2016|archive-date=September 11, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160911162803/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/09/05/sept5rawresults/|url-status=live}} Mahal then adopted the gimmick of a "man who comes in peace", advocating peace and tranquility.{{Citation|last=WWE|title=Jinder Mahal tries to help Alicia Fox find inner peace: Raw Fallout, Sept. 19, 2016|date=September 19, 2016|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-tte71APps |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211215/9-tte71APps |archive-date=December 15, 2021 |url-status=live|access-date=April 13, 2018}}{{cbignore}}{{Citation|last=WWE|title=Jinder Mahal demonstrates a breathing exercise for achieving inner peace|date=October 3, 2016|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOhJ1Ma2dqw |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211215/qOhJ1Ma2dqw |archive-date=December 15, 2021 |url-status=live|access-date=April 13, 2018}}{{cbignore}} On the September 12 episode of Raw, Mahal stated that after he left WWE he "felt anger and rage" and had since "found inner peace" before defeating Jack Swagger.{{cite web|title=Csonka's WWE Raw Review 9.12.16|url=http://411mania.com/wrestling/csonkas-wwe-raw-review-9-12-16/|website=411mania|access-date=September 13, 2016|archive-date=September 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914172728/http://411mania.com/wrestling/csonkas-wwe-raw-review-9-12-16/|url-status=live}} Afterwards, Mahal began competing on Main Event and Superstars, where he often traded wins and losses against Darren Young.{{cite web|title=WWE Superstars Results: Jinder Mahal picks up a win|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-results/wwe-superstars-results-jinder-mahal-picks-win-224921|publisher=Figure Four Wrestling Online|access-date=April 27, 2017|date=November 20, 2016|archive-date=April 27, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170427193254/http://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-results/wwe-superstars-results-jinder-mahal-picks-win-224921|url-status=live}}

On the December 19 episode of Raw, a notably more lean and muscular{{cite web|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-results/wwe-main-event-results-gallagher-ali-vs-dar-nese-231601|title=WWE Main Event results: Gallagher & Ali vs. Dar & Nese|date=March 11, 2017|access-date=June 9, 2018|archive-date=June 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612162052/https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-results/wwe-main-event-results-gallagher-ali-vs-dar-nese-231601|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-results/wwe-raw-live-results-goldberg-returns-first-episode-2017-227511|title=WWE Raw live results: Goldberg returns on the first episode of 2017|date=January 2, 2017|access-date=June 9, 2018|archive-date=June 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612162917/https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-results/wwe-raw-live-results-goldberg-returns-first-episode-2017-227511|url-status=live}} Mahal began an alliance with Rusev after Mahal had a confrontation with Rusev's rival Enzo Amore before the two attacked Amore.{{cite web|title=KELLER'S WWE RAW REPORT 12/19: Fallout from Roadblock including Jericho explaining his actions and putting Santa on his list|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/12/19/kellers-wwe-raw-report-1219-fallout-roadblock-including-jericho-explaining-actions-putting-santa-list/|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=January 3, 2017|date=December 20, 2016|archive-date=December 20, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220235908/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/12/19/kellers-wwe-raw-report-1219-fallout-roadblock-including-jericho-explaining-actions-putting-santa-list/|url-status=live}} On the January 2, 2017, episode of Raw, Mahal and Rusev defeated Amore's tag team partner Big Cass in a 2-on-1 handicap match.{{cite web|last1=Keller|first1=Wade|title=KELLER'S WWE RAW REPORT 1/2: Goldberg appearance, Sami vs. Braun in Last Man Standing match, Foley's new haircut|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/01/02/kellers-wwe-raw-report-12-goldberg-appearance-sami-vs-braun-last-man-standing-match-foleys-new-haircut/|website=pwtorch.com|publisher=TDH Communications Inc.|access-date=January 2, 2017|archive-date=January 3, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170103235819/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/01/02/kellers-wwe-raw-report-12-goldberg-appearance-sami-vs-braun-last-man-standing-match-foleys-new-haircut/|url-status=live}} The following week on Raw, Mahal lost to Cass (who had Shawn Michaels at ringside) after Michaels performed the Sweet Chin Music on Rusev at ringside, which distracted Mahal.{{cite web|last1=Keller|first1=Wade|title=KELLER'S WWE MONDAY NIGHT RAW REPORT 1/9: Reigns vs. Owens & Jericho, Shawn Michaels, Foley's Performance Review, Undertaker "rumored" to appear|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/01/09/kellers-wwe-monday-night-raw-report-19-reigns-vs-owens-jericho-shawn-michaels-foleys-performance-review-undertaker-rumored-appear/|website=pwtorch.com|publisher=TDH Communications Inc.|access-date=January 9, 2017|archive-date=January 10, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170110233324/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/01/09/kellers-wwe-monday-night-raw-report-19-reigns-vs-owens-jericho-shawn-michaels-foleys-performance-review-undertaker-rumored-appear/|url-status=live}} On the February 27 episode of Raw, Mahal and Rusev began to show tension after Rusev inadvertently distracted Mahal, causing the two to lose to The New Day (Big E, Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods).{{cite web|title=WWE RAW Results – 2/27/17 (Seth Rollins returns, Goldberg, Fastlane)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/73632-wwe-raw-results-22717-seth-rollins-returns-goldberg-fastlane/|website=WrestleView|access-date=March 8, 2017|date=February 27, 2017|archive-date=March 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170307123445/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/73632-wwe-raw-results-22717-seth-rollins-returns-goldberg-fastlane/|url-status=live}} The alliance between Mahal and Rusev ended at Fastlane on March 5, when Mahal informed Raw General Manager Mick Foley about his desire to return to singles competition, prompting Foley to place the duo in singles matches that night and with both Mahal and Rusev losing their respective matches against Cesaro and Big Show.{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=3/5 Powell's WWE Fastlane Live Review: Kevin Owens vs. Goldberg for the WWE Championship, Roman Reigns vs. Braun Strowman, Bayley vs. Charlotte for the Raw Women's Championship, Samoa Joe vs. Sami Zayn|url=http://prowrestling.net/site/2017/03/05/35-powells-wwe-fastlane-live-review-kevin-owens-vs-goldberg-wwe-championship-roman-reigns-vs-braun-strowman-bayley-vs-charlotte-raw-womens-championship-samoa-joe-vs-sam/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=March 5, 2017|archive-date=March 6, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170306135418/http://prowrestling.net/site/2017/03/05/35-powells-wwe-fastlane-live-review-kevin-owens-vs-goldberg-wwe-championship-roman-reigns-vs-braun-strowman-bayley-vs-charlotte-raw-womens-championship-samoa-joe-vs-sam/|url-status=live}} This was done due to Rusev suffering a legit shoulder injury.{{cite web|url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/rusev-injury-update-bulgarian-superstar-to-miss-wwe-wrestlemania-33-out-for-at-least-two-months|title=Rusev Injury Update: Bulgarian Superstar to miss WWE WrestleMania 33, out for at least two months|work=Sportskeeda|access-date=March 16, 2017|date=March 16, 2017|archive-date=August 22, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170822093327/https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/rusev-injury-update-bulgarian-superstar-to-miss-wwe-wrestlemania-33-out-for-at-least-two-months|url-status=live}}

On April 3 at the WrestleMania 33 preshow, Mahal was the runner-up in the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, being eliminated last by Mojo Rawley after interference from Rob Gronkowski.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/2017-andre-the-giant-memorial-battle-royal-results|title=Mojo Rawley won the 4th annual Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal|last=Artus|first=Matthew|work=WWE|access-date=April 2, 2017|archive-date=April 4, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170404043045/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/2017-andre-the-giant-memorial-battle-royal-results|url-status=live}} On April 11, Mahal was moved to SmackDown as part of the Superstar Shake-up. On that night, he lost to Rawley after another interference from Gronkowski to end their feud.{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/04/11/kellers-wwe-smackdown-report-411-superstar-shake-night-2-details/|title=KELLER'S WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 4/11: Superstar Shake-up Night 2 details|last1=Keller|first1=Wade|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=April 11, 2017|archive-date=June 21, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170621095210/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/04/11/kellers-wwe-smackdown-report-411-superstar-shake-night-2-details/|url-status=live}}

{{quote box|quote=Jinder is a guy who has always worked extremely hard. He trains hard; he's very intense about what he wants with his career; he's very thoughtful... to Jinder's credit and to Drew [McIntyre]'s credit, they left, they went and figured it for themselves, they improved. They're both men now as opposed to kids trying to make it in the business... now hopefully they are in a better position to succeed. |source=Triple H in April 2017{{cite web|title=INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS: Triple H comments on Jinder Mahal suddenly getting a PPV World Title match, Drew McIntyre's fresh start (w/Keller's Analysis)|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/04/25/interview-highlights-triple-h-comments-jinder-mahal-suddenly-getting-ppv-world-title-match-drew-mcintyres-fresh-start-wkellers-analysis/|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=April 27, 2017|date=April 25, 2017|archive-date=April 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170428051018/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/04/25/interview-highlights-triple-h-comments-jinder-mahal-suddenly-getting-ppv-world-title-match-drew-mcintyres-fresh-start-wkellers-analysis/|url-status=live}}|align=right|width=25%}}

On the April 18 episode of SmackDown Live, Mahal won a six-pack challenge to earn a title match for the WWE Championship after interference from Mahal's new allies, The Singh Brothers (Samir and Sunil Singh),{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/04/18/wwe-smackdown-report-418-six-way-contenders-match-naomi-vs-charlotte/|title=KELLER'S WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 4/18: Six-Way Contenders Match, Naomi vs. Charlotte, Styles vs. Corbin|last=Keller|first=Wade|date=April 18, 2017|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=April 19, 2017|archive-date=April 20, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170420045936/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/04/18/wwe-smackdown-report-418-six-way-contenders-match-naomi-vs-charlotte/|url-status=live}} defeating the champion Randy Orton at Backlash to win the title, becoming the 50th recognized WWE Champion and the first of Indian descent.{{cite web|last=Benigno|first=Anthony|title=WWE Champion Jinder Mahal def. Randy Orton|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/2017/randy-orton-jinder-mahal-results|work=WWE|access-date=May 21, 2017|archive-date=June 27, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170627112434/http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/2017/randy-orton-jinder-mahal-results|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last1=Powell|first1=Jason|title=5/21 Powell's WWE Backlash Live Review: Randy Orton vs. Jinder Mahal for the WWE Championship, Kevin Owens vs. AJ Styles for the U.S. Championship, Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Dolph Ziggler|url=http://prowrestling.net/site/2017/05/21/521-powells-wwe-backlash-live-review-randy-orton-vs-jinder-mahal-wwe-championship-kevin-owens-vs-aj-styles-u-s-championship-shinsuke-nakamura-vs-dolph-ziggler/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=May 21, 2017|date=May 21, 2017|archive-date=June 14, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170614135849/http://prowrestling.net/site/2017/05/21/521-powells-wwe-backlash-live-review-randy-orton-vs-jinder-mahal-wwe-championship-kevin-owens-vs-aj-styles-u-s-championship-shinsuke-nakamura-vs-dolph-ziggler/|url-status=live}} According to him, Mahal was included into the feud against Orton after Rusev suffered an injury and his title win took place because the company wanted a surprise.{{cite web | url=https://solowrestling.mundodeportivo.com/new/133115-jinder-mahal-revela-que-tuvo-la-oportunidad-de-ser-campeon-de-wwe-gracias-a-una-lesion-de-rusev | title=Jinder Mahal revela que tuvo la oportunidad de ser Campeón de WWE gracias a una lesión de Rusev | date=August 29, 2024 }} Mahal retained the title against Orton at Money in the Bank, and Battleground, the first in a singles match and the second in a Punjabi Prison match.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2017/jinder-mahal-randy-orton-results|title=WWE Champion Jinder Mahal def. Randy Orton|last=Benigno|first=Anthony|work=WWE|access-date=June 18, 2017|archive-date=June 27, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170627150959/http://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2017/jinder-mahal-randy-orton-results|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwebattleground/2017/jinder-mahal-randy-orton-results|title=WWE Champion Jinder Mahal def. Randy Orton (Punjabi Prison Match)|last1=Benigno|first1=Anthony|work=WWE|access-date=June 23, 2017|archive-date=July 29, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729015541/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwebattleground/2017/jinder-mahal-randy-orton-results|url-status=live}}

On the August 15 episode of SmackDown Live, Baron Corbin cashed in his Money in the Bank contract on Mahal, retaining the title after Corbin was distracted by John Cena.{{cite web|url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/88451-wwe-smackdown-results-august-15-2017/|title=WWE Smackdown Results – 8/15/17 (Final show before SummerSlam)|date=August 15, 2017|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|work=Wrestleview|access-date=August 16, 2017|archive-date=August 16, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170816194616/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/88451-wwe-smackdown-results-august-15-2017/|url-status=live}} In the following weeks, he retained the WWE Championship against Shinsuke Nakamura at SummerSlam{{cite web|last1=Benigno|first1=Anthony|title=WWE Champion Jinder Mahal def. Shinsuke Nakamura|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2017/jinder-mahal-shinsuke-nakamura-match-results|work=WWE|date=August 20, 2017|access-date=August 21, 2017|archive-date=August 21, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170821130834/http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2017/jinder-mahal-shinsuke-nakamura-match-results|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=Powell's WWE SummerSlam 2017 live review: Brock Lesnar vs. Braun Strowman vs. Samoa Joe vs. Roman Reigns for the WWE Universal Championship, Jinder Mahal vs. Shinsuke Nakamura for the WWE Championship, Sheamus and Cesaro vs. Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins for the Raw Tag Titles|url=http://prowrestling.net/site/2017/08/20/powells-wwe-summerslam-2017-live-review-brock-lesnar-vs-braun-strowman-vs-samoa-joe-vs-roman-reigns-wwe-universal-championship-jinder-mahal-vs-shinsuke-nakamura-wwe-champio/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=August 20, 2017|date=August 20, 2017|archive-date=August 21, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170821024325/http://prowrestling.net/site/2017/08/20/powells-wwe-summerslam-2017-live-review-brock-lesnar-vs-braun-strowman-vs-samoa-joe-vs-roman-reigns-wwe-universal-championship-jinder-mahal-vs-shinsuke-nakamura-wwe-champio/|url-status=live}} and Hell in a Cell.{{cite news|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/hellinacell/2017/jinder-mahal-shinsuke-nakamura-results|title=The Modern Day Maharaja attempts to quell the threat of Nakamura|work=WWE|date=October 8, 2017|access-date=October 10, 2017|archive-date=October 11, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171011003105/http://www.wwe.com/shows/hellinacell/2017/jinder-mahal-shinsuke-nakamura-results|url-status=live}} On the October 17 episode of SmackDown Live, Mahal challenged Universal Champion Brock Lesnar to a match at Survivor Series,{{cite web|last1=Benigno|first1=Anthony|title=Universal Champion Brock Lesnar vs. WWE Champion Jinder Mahal (Champion vs. Champion Match)|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/2017/brock-lesnar-vs-jinder-mahal|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171024111545/https://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/2017/brock-lesnar-vs-jinder-mahal|url-status=dead|work=WWE|access-date=December 10, 2018|archive-date=October 24, 2017}} However, Mahal lost the WWE Championship to AJ Styles on the November 7 episode of SmackDown Live, ending his reign at 170 days.{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=11/7 Barnett's WWE Smackdown Live TV Review: Jinder Mahal vs. AJ Styles for the WWE Championship, The Usos vs. Shelton Benjamin and Chad Gable for the Smackdown Tag Titles, Becky Lynch vs. James Ellsworth|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2017/11/07/117-barnetts-wwe-smackdown-live-tv-review-jinder-mahal-vs-aj-styles-wwe-championship-usos-vs-shelton-benjamin-chad-gable-smackdown-tag-titles-becky-lynch-vs-james-ellsw/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=November 7, 2017|archive-date=November 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109084448/https://prowrestling.net/site/2017/11/07/117-barnetts-wwe-smackdown-live-tv-review-jinder-mahal-vs-aj-styles-wwe-championship-usos-vs-shelton-benjamin-chad-gable-smackdown-tag-titles-becky-lynch-vs-james-ellsw/|url-status=live}} Mahal received his rematch for the title against Styles at Clash of Champions on December 17, but he lost by submission.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wweclashofchampions/2017/aj-styles-jinder-mahal-results|title=WWE Champion AJ Styles def. Jinder Mahal|last=Benigno|first=Anthony|publisher=WWE|access-date=December 17, 2017|archive-date=December 22, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222071314/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wweclashofchampions/2017/aj-styles-jinder-mahal-results|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2017/12/17/powells-wwe-clash-champions-2017-live-review-aj-styles-vs-jinder-mahal-wwe-championship-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-put-wwe-careers-line-vs-randy-orton-shinsuke-nak/|title=Powell's WWE Clash of Champions 2017 live review: AJ Styles vs. Jinder Mahal for the WWE Championship, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn put their WWE careers on the line vs. Randy Orton and Shinsuke Nakamura with Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan as referees|last=Powell|first=Jason|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=December 17, 2017|archive-date=December 22, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222105022/https://prowrestling.net/site/2017/12/17/powells-wwe-clash-champions-2017-live-review-aj-styles-vs-jinder-mahal-wwe-championship-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-put-wwe-careers-line-vs-randy-orton-shinsuke-nak/|url-status=live}}

File:Jinder mahal mania 34 (cropped).jpeg]]

After dropping the WWE Championship, Mahal was quickly inserted into the United States Championship picture after he competed in an 8-man tournament to crown a new champion, losing against Robert Roode in the finals.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-smackdown-results/96778-wwe-smackdown-results-january-23-2018/|title=WWE Smackdown Results – 1/23/18 (Final hype for Royal Rumble, Six Man Tag Match)|date=January 23, 2018|last=Martin|first=Adam|work=Wrestleview|access-date=April 10, 2018|archive-date=April 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180410202236/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-smackdown-results/96778-wwe-smackdown-results-january-23-2018/|url-status=live}} At WrestleMania 34, Mahal won a Fatal 4 Way, including the champion Randy Orton, Rusev and Robert Roode to win the title.{{cite web|last=Pappolla|first=Ryan|title=Jinder Mahal def. Randy Orton, Rusev and Bobby Roode to win the United States Championship|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/wrestlemania-34/randy-orton-bobby-roode-jinder-mahal-rusev-results|publisher=WWE|access-date=March 20, 2018|archive-date=April 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180409171420/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/wrestlemania-34/randy-orton-bobby-roode-jinder-mahal-rusev-results|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=Powell's WrestleMania 34 live review: AJ Styles vs. Shinsuke Nakamura for the WWE Championship, Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns for the WWE Universal Championship, Charlotte Flair vs. Asuka for the Smackdown Women's Championship, Ronda Rousey and Kurt Angle vs. Triple H and Stephanie McMahon|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/04/08/powells-wrestlemania-34-live-review-aj-styles-vs-shinsuke-nakamura-for-the-wwe-championship-brock-lesnar-vs-roman-reigns-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-charlotte-flair-vs-as/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=April 8, 2018|date=April 8, 2018|archive-date=April 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180409013212/https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/04/08/powells-wrestlemania-34-live-review-aj-styles-vs-shinsuke-nakamura-for-the-wwe-championship-brock-lesnar-vs-roman-reigns-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-charlotte-flair-vs-as/|url-status=live}} On April 16, as part of Superstar Shake-up, Mahal was traded back to Raw and lost the title to Jeff Hardy, ending his reign at just 8 days.{{cite web|last1=Powell|first1=Jason|title=WWE Raw Live TV Review: The Superstar Shakeup Night One, Sasha Banks vs. Bayley, Matt Hardy and Bray Wyatt vs. The Revival for a shot at the vacant Raw Tag Titles|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/04/16/wwe-raw-live-tv-review-the-superstar-shakeup-night-one-sasha-banks-vs-bayley-matt-hardy-and-bray-wyatt-vs-the-revival-for-a-shot-at-the-vacant-raw-tag-titles/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=April 16, 2018|date=April 16, 2018|archive-date=April 17, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180417111441/https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/04/16/wwe-raw-live-tv-review-the-superstar-shakeup-night-one-sasha-banks-vs-bayley-matt-hardy-and-bray-wyatt-vs-the-revival-for-a-shot-at-the-vacant-raw-tag-titles/|url-status=live}} On April 27 at Greatest Royal Rumble event Mahal couldn't win back the United States Championship from Hardy.{{cite web|last1=Melok|first1=Bobby|title=United States Champion Jeff Hardy def. Jinder Mahal|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/greatest-royal-rumble/2018/jeff-hardy-jinder-mahal-results|work=WWE|access-date=April 27, 2018|archive-date=April 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180428095459/http://www.wwe.com/shows/greatest-royal-rumble/2018/jeff-hardy-jinder-mahal-results|url-status=live}}

Image:Jinder Mahal 2019 (cropped).jpg

On the May 7 episode of Raw, after defeating Chad Gable, Mahal was denied entry into the triple threat Money in the Bank qualifying match by General Manager Kurt Angle, which led to Mahal interfering and costing Roman Reigns the match later that night.{{cite web|url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-raw-results/103879-may-7-2018-mitb-qualifying-matches-uniondale/|title=WWE RAW Results – 5/7/18 (Two Triple Threat Money in the Bank Qualifying Matches)|work=WrestleView|first=Mike|last=Tedesco|date=May 7, 2018|access-date=December 10, 2018|archive-date=May 12, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190512144117/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-raw-results/103879-may-7-2018-mitb-qualifying-matches-uniondale/|url-status=live}} The following week, Mahal was scheduled to compete in another triple threat Money in the Bank qualifying match against Bobby Lashley and Elias, but he was attacked by Reigns before the match.{{cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/05/14/5-14-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-and-analysis-of-jax-vs-rousey-title-match-announcement-and-latest-money-in-the-bank-developments/|title=5/14 WWE RAW RESULTS: Keller's report and analysis of Jax vs. Rousey title match announcement and latest Money in the Bank developments|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|first=Wade|last=Keller|date=May 14, 2018|access-date=December 25, 2018|archive-date=June 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628182045/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/05/14/5-14-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-and-analysis-of-jax-vs-rousey-title-match-announcement-and-latest-money-in-the-bank-developments/|url-status=live}} At Money in the Bank, Mahal lost to Reigns.{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2018/roman-reigns-jinder-mahal-results|title=Roman Reigns def. Jinder Mahal|work=WWE|first=Anthony|last=Benigno|date=June 17, 2018|access-date=December 25, 2018|archive-date=May 18, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190518154952/https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2018/roman-reigns-jinder-mahal-results|url-status=live}}

The night after on Raw, Mahal returned as the "man who comes in peace" and defeated Chad Gable.{{cite web |title=WWE RAW Results – 6/18/18 (Fallout from Money in the Bank, Ronda Rousey advertised) |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-raw-results/107177-june-18-2018-mitb-fallout-ronda-rousey-grand-rapids/ |website=WrestleView |access-date=June 29, 2018 |date=June 18, 2018 |archive-date=June 23, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180623155131/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-raw-results/107177-june-18-2018-mitb-fallout-ronda-rousey-grand-rapids/ |url-status=live }} Starting in September, Mahal competed in the second iteration of the WWE Mixed Match Challenge, teaming with Alicia Fox, where they went 1-3 to make the Playoff round of the tournament and defeat the team of Apollo Crews and Bayley to advance to the finals. At the TLC PPV on December 16, Mahal & Fox lost the final to R-Truth & Carmella.{{cite web|last1=Burdick|first1=Michael|title=Carmella & R-Truth def. Jinder Mahal & Alicia Fox to win Season 2 of Mixed Match Challenge|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwetlc/2018/r-truth-carmella-jinder-mahal-alicia-fox-results|work=WWE|access-date=December 16, 2018|archive-date=January 1, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190101145554/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwetlc/2018/r-truth-carmella-jinder-mahal-alicia-fox-results|url-status=live}} In 2019, as part of Superstar Shake-up, Mahal was moved to the SmackDown brand,{{cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/04/23/4-23-wwe-smackdown-live-results-powells-review-of-kofi-kingston-vs-shinsuke-nakamura-in-a-non-title-match-becky-lynch-and-charlotte-flair-meet-face-to-face-for-the-first-time-since-wrestlemania-3/|title=4/23 WWE Smackdown Live results: Powell's review of Kofi Kingston vs. Shinsuke Nakamura in a non-title match, Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair meet face to face for the first time since WrestleMania 35, fallout from Roman Reigns punching Vince McMahon and the Superstar Shakeup|date=April 23, 2019|last=Powell|first=Jason|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=April 25, 2019|archive-date=April 24, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190424130203/https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/04/23/4-23-wwe-smackdown-live-results-powells-review-of-kofi-kingston-vs-shinsuke-nakamura-in-a-non-title-match-becky-lynch-and-charlotte-flair-meet-face-to-face-for-the-first-time-since-wrestlemania-3/|url-status=live}} where he won the 24/7 Championship twice, 1 pinning champion R-Truth on a golf course,{{cite web|last=Bristout|first=Ralph|title=R-Truth regains the 24/7 Title after golf course scrap with Jinder Mahal|url=https://www.wwe.com/article/r-truth-regains-the-24-7-title-after-golf-course-scrap-with-jinder-mahal|work=WWE|access-date=June 2, 2019|archive-date=June 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190603045500/https://www.wwe.com/article/r-truth-regains-the-24-7-title-after-golf-course-scrap-with-jinder-mahal|url-status=live}} and, 4 days later, pinned R-Truth on an airport tarmac.{{Cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/videos/r-truth-loses-the-24-7-title-on-the-airport-tarmac|title=R-Truth loses the 24/7 Title at the airport|via=www.wwe.com|access-date=June 29, 2019|archive-date=May 18, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220518000618/https://www.wwe.com/videos/r-truth-loses-the-24-7-title-on-the-airport-tarmac|url-status=live}} On June 28, WWE reported that Mahal suffered a knee injury and it was reported that the injury would sideline him for 6 to 12 months.{{cite web|last=Wortman|first=James|title=Jinder Mahal undergoes knee surgery|url=https://www.wwe.com/article/jinder-mahal-patellar-tendon-surgery|work=WWE|access-date=June 28, 2019|archive-date=June 29, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190629095242/https://www.wwe.com/article/jinder-mahal-patellar-tendon-surgery|url-status=live}} As part of the 2019 draft, Mahal was drafted to the Raw brand.{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/article/full-2019-wwe-draft-results|title=See all the results from the 2019 WWE Draft|date=October 11, 2019|author=WWE.com Staff|work=WWE.com|access-date=October 14, 2019|archive-date=October 15, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191015033410/https://www.wwe.com/article/full-2019-wwe-draft-results|url-status=live}} While he returned on the April 27, 2020, show of Raw,{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|date=April 27, 2020|title=4/27 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of the Drew McIntyre and Seth Rollins contract signing for the WWE Championship match at Money in the Bank, Shayna Baszler vs. Nia Jax vs. Asuka in a Triple Threat|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/04/27/4-27-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-the-drew-mcintyre-and-seth-rollins-contract-signing-for-the-wwe-championship-match-at-money-in-the-bank-shayna-baszler-vs-nia-jax-vs-asuka-in-a-triple/|access-date=April 27, 2020|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|archive-date=May 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200503014814/https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/04/27/4-27-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-the-drew-mcintyre-and-seth-rollins-contract-signing-for-the-wwe-championship-match-at-money-in-the-bank-shayna-baszler-vs-nia-jax-vs-asuka-in-a-triple/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|date=April 27, 2020|title=Raw results, April 27, 2020|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2020-04-27|access-date=April 28, 2020|work=WWE|archive-date=April 28, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200428231114/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2020-04-27|url-status=live}} a month later underwent another surgery to fix complications in his knee.{{cite web|title=Jinder Mahal sidelined after undergoing knee surgery|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/06/05/jinder-mahal-sidelined-after-undergoing-knee-surgery/|access-date=June 29, 2020|website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=June 5, 2020|archive-date=June 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200624025716/https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/06/05/jinder-mahal-sidelined-after-undergoing-knee-surgery/|url-status=live}}

After a nine-month absence, Mahal appeared at the Superstar Spectacle on January 26, 2021, reuniting with The Singh Brothers; they lost to Drew McIntyre and Indus Sher (Rinku & Saurav) in a 6-man tag team match.{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/superstar-spectacle/superstar-spectacle-2021|title=Superstar Spectacle Results|publisher=WWE|date=January 26, 2021|access-date=January 26, 2021|archive-date=January 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210125103352/https://www.wwe.com/shows/superstar-spectacle/superstar-spectacle-2021|url-status=live}} Mahal formed an alliance with Rinku (now known as Veer) & Shanky on the May 3 show of Main Event, where he defeated Jeff Hardy.{{Cite web|url = https://wrestlingworld.co/news/jinder-mahal-returns-to-in-ring-action-on-wwe-main-event-defeats-jeff-hardy/|title = Jinder Mahal Returns to In-Ring Action on WWE Main Event, Defeats Jeff Hardy|date = May 4, 2021|access-date = May 6, 2021|archive-date = May 7, 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210507121627/https://wrestlingworld.co/news/jinder-mahal-returns-to-in-ring-action-on-wwe-main-event-defeats-jeff-hardy/|url-status = live}} In June, he began a feud with former 3MB teammate Drew McIntyre after Mahal questioned the amount of championship opportunities McIntyre had received over the past year.{{cite web|last=Brookhouse|first=Brent|title=WWE Raw results, recap, grades: Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods battle Bobby Lashley and MVP in main event|url=https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-raw-results-recap-grades-kofi-kingston-and-xavier-woods-battle-bobby-lashley-and-mvp-in-main-event/live/|work=CBSSports|access-date=July 27, 2021|date=July 5, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210706035314/https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-raw-results-recap-grades-kofi-kingston-and-xavier-woods-battle-bobby-lashley-and-mvp-in-main-event/live/|archive-date=July 6, 2021|url-status=live}} At Money in the Bank, Mahal interfered in the titular match, attacking McIntyre with Shanky and Veer carrying McIntyre away from the match.{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=WWE Money in the Bank results: Powell's review of the MITB ladder matches, Roman Reigns vs. Edge for the WWE Universal Championship, Bobby Lashley vs. Kofi Kingston for the WWE Championship, Rhea Ripley vs. Charlotte Flair for the Raw Women's Championship|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/07/18/wwe-money-in-the-bank-results-powells-review-of-the-mitb-ladder-matches-roman-reigns-vs-edge-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-bobby-lashley-vs-kofi-kingston-for-the-wwe-championship-rhea-rip/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=July 18, 2021|access-date=July 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210722115826/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/07/18/wwe-money-in-the-bank-results-powells-review-of-the-mitb-ladder-matches-roman-reigns-vs-edge-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-bobby-lashley-vs-kofi-kingston-for-the-wwe-championship-rhea-rip/|archive-date=July 22, 2021|url-status=live}} The following night on Raw, Mahal, Shanky, and Veer gloated about costing McIntyre the match only for McIntyre to attack all three with a steel chair.{{cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/07/19/7-19-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-john-cenas-show-opening-segment-fans-return-charlotte-flair-coronation-symphony-of-destruction-match-six-man-tag-match-the-money-in-the-bank-fallo/|title=7/19 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of John Cena's show opening segment, fans return, Charlotte Flair coronation, Symphony of Destruction match, six-man tag match, the Money in the Bank fallout edition|date=July 19, 2021|last=Powell|first=Jason|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=July 20, 2021|archive-date=July 20, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210720000551/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/07/19/7-19-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-john-cenas-show-opening-segment-fans-return-charlotte-flair-coronation-symphony-of-destruction-match-six-man-tag-match-the-money-in-the-bank-fallo/|url-status=live}} At SummerSlam, Mahal lost to McIntyre.{{Cite web|last=Laboon|first=Jeff|title=Drew McIntyre def. Jinder Mahal|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2021/drew-mcintyre-vs-jinder-mahal-results|work=WWE|date=August 21, 2021|access-date=August 22, 2021|archive-date=August 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210822030340/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2021/drew-mcintyre-vs-jinder-mahal-results|url-status=live}}

As part of the 2021 Draft, both Mahal and Shanky were drafted to SmackDown while Veer remained on Raw, ending their alliance with Veer.{{Cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/article/latest-wwe-draft-results-2021|title=See all the results from the 2021 Draft|access-date=October 6, 2021|archive-date=October 2, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211002011314/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/article/latest-wwe-draft-results-2021|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/10/04/10-4-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-the-wwe-draft-night-two-goldberg-returns-the-build-to-wwe-crown-jewel-continues/|title=10/4 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of the WWE Draft night two, Goldberg returns, the build to WWE Crown Jewel continues|date=October 4, 2021|last=Powell|first=Jason|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=October 5, 2021|archive-date=October 5, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211005061332/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/10/04/10-4-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-the-wwe-draft-night-two-goldberg-returns-the-build-to-wwe-crown-jewel-continues/|url-status=live}} In October, Mahal entered the King of the Ring tournament, where he defeated Kofi Kingston in the first round, but lost to Xavier Woods in the semi-finals.{{cite web |last1=Powell |first1=Jason |title=10/11 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair vs. Bianca Belair and Sasha Banks, WWE Champion Big E and Drew McIntyre meet face to face, King of the Ring and Queen's Crown opening round matches |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/10/11/10-11-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-becky-lynch-and-charlotte-flair-vs-bianca-belair-and-sasha-banks-wwe-champion-big-e-and-drew-mcintyre-meet-face-to-face-king-of-the-ring-and-queens/ |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net |access-date=October 12, 2021 |date=October 11, 2021 |archive-date=October 12, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211012005311/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/10/11/10-11-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-becky-lynch-and-charlotte-flair-vs-bianca-belair-and-sasha-banks-wwe-champion-big-e-and-drew-mcintyre-meet-face-to-face-king-of-the-ring-and-queens/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web|last1=Powell|first1=Jason|title=10/18 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of Charlotte Flair vs. Bianca Belair for the Raw Women's Championship, Shayna Baszler vs. Doudrop in a Queen's Crown semifinal match, Xavier Woods vs. Jinder Mahal in a KOTR semifinal match, final hype for Crown Jewel|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/10/18/10-18-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-charlotte-flair-vs-bianca-belair-for-the-raw-womens-championship-shayna-baszler-vs-doudrop-in-a-queens-crown-semifinal-match-xavier-woods-vs-ji/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=October 19, 2021|date=October 18, 2021|archive-date=October 19, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211019000447/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/10/18/10-18-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-charlotte-flair-vs-bianca-belair-for-the-raw-womens-championship-shayna-baszler-vs-doudrop-in-a-queens-crown-semifinal-match-xavier-woods-vs-ji/|url-status=live}} At Survivor Series, Mahal would be a part of The Rock's 25th anniversary battle royal, but was eliminated.{{Cite web|title=Omos is the last man standing in the 25-man Dual-Brand Battle Royal|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/survivor-series/survivor-series-2021/25-man-dual-brand-battle-royal-results|access-date=November 25, 2021|website=WWE|language=en|archive-date=November 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211122031931/https://www.wwe.com/shows/survivor-series/survivor-series-2021/25-man-dual-brand-battle-royal-results|url-status=live}} On the April 15, 2022, edition of SmackDown, Mahal would challenge Ricochet for the Intercontinental Championship but was unsuccessful.{{cite web|url=https://wrestlingnews.co/wwe-news/wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-for-july-15-2022|title=WWE Friday Night SmackDown Results for July 15,2022|last=Curtie|first=Billy|website=Wrestlingnews.co|date=July 15, 2022|access-date=July 16, 2022|archive-date=July 15, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220715232003/https://wrestlingnews.co/wwe-news/wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-for-july-15-2022|url-status=live}} At New Year's Evil on January 10, 2023, Mahal returned to NXT for the first time since 2012, aligning himself with Indus Sher (Veer & Sanga) by attacking The Creed Brothers.{{cite web|last=Moore|first=John|title=1/10 NXT TV results: Moore's review of New Year's Evil featuring Bron Breakker vs. Grayson Waller for the NXT Title, 20-woman battle royal for a shot at the NXT Women's Title, The Creed Brothers vs. Indus Sher, Dijak vs. Tony D'Angelo, Charlie Dempsey vs. Hank Walker, gauntlet match for an NXT Tag Team Title shot|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/01/10/1-10-nxt-tv-results-moores-review-of-new-years-evil-featuring-bron-breakker-vs-grayson-waller-for-the-nxt-title-20-woman-battle-royal-for-a-shot-at-the-nxt-womens-title-the-creed-brothers-vs/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=January 10, 2023|access-date=January 11, 2023|archive-date=January 12, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230112033520/https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/01/10/1-10-nxt-tv-results-moores-review-of-new-years-evil-featuring-bron-breakker-vs-grayson-waller-for-the-nxt-title-20-woman-battle-royal-for-a-shot-at-the-nxt-womens-title-the-creed-brothers-vs/|url-status=live}} On the February 21 show of NXT, he challenged Bron Breakker for the NXT Championship in a losing effort. As part of the 2023 WWE Draft, he returned to the main roster as Indus Sher was drafted to Raw as a team.{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/article/latest-wwe-draft-results-2023|title=See all the results from the 2023 Draft|publisher=WWE|date=April 28, 2023|access-date=May 4, 2023|archive-date=May 5, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230505094809/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/article/latest-wwe-draft-results-2023|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Keller |first1=Wade |title=5/1 WWE Monday Night Raw Results: Keller's report on WWE Draft, Riddle vs. Uso, Judgment Day vs. LWO mixed tag, Lesnar, Cody |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2023/05/01/5-1-wwe-monday-night-raw-results-kellers-report-on-wwe-draft-riddle-vs-uso-judgment-day-vs-lwo-mixed-tag-lesnar-cody/ |access-date=May 1, 2023 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |date=May 1, 2023 |archive-date=May 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230501233535/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2023/05/01/5-1-wwe-monday-night-raw-results-kellers-report-on-wwe-draft-riddle-vs-uso-judgment-day-vs-lwo-mixed-tag-lesnar-cody/ |url-status=live }}

Prior to the special Day 1 show of Raw on January 1, 2024 rumours reported that a former WWE Champion would be appearing on the show.{{cite news |last1=Medeiros |first1=James De |date=December 29, 2023 |title=Backstage Report: WWE Hoping To Sign Former Champion To Deal In Time For Day 1 |url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/1481512/backstage-report-wwe-hoping-sign-former-champion-time-day-1/ |work=Wrestling Inc. |access-date=January 13, 2024}} Mahal was revealed as the champion in question, to the dismay of the audience, and berated America as being divided while claiming that he'd unite it.{{cite news |last1=Mrosko |first1=Geno |date=January 1, 2024 |title=The Rock was Triple H's big surprise return (and Jinder Mahal too!) |url=https://www.cagesideseats.com/wwe/2024/1/1/24022015/the-rock-wwe-return-former-champion-triple-h-raw-jinder-mahal |work=Cageside Seats |access-date=January 13, 2024}} Another former WWE Champion, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, would interrupt him in a surprise return for the first time since September, insulting Mahal before finally hitting his signature moves on him. 3 days later, Mahal challenged The Rock to a match in India during an interview with Sony Sports Network.{{cite news |last1=Mukherjee |first1=Subhojeet |date=January 7, 2024 |title=Jinder Mahal Eyes Epic Match with The Rock in India Following Their WWE RAW Day 1 Beatdown |url=https://www.ringsidenews.com/2024/01/07/jinder-mahal-eyes-epic-match-with-the-rock-in-india-following-their-wwe-raw-day-1-beatdown/ |work=Ringside News |access-date=January 13, 2024}} The next week on Raw, Mahal confronted World Heavyweight Champion Seth "Freakin" Rollins and continued to present himself as a man who wanted a platform to tell the truth, while chastising Rollins for overlooking him as a worthy challenger. Mahal attacked Rollins after his rebuttal and the two brawled with him escaping from Rollins' attack,{{cite news |last1=Gomez |first1=M. |date=January 9, 2024 |title=Jinder Mahal aims to prove his worth in title tilt against Seth Rollins |url=https://www.cagesideseats.com/wwe/2024/1/9/24031331/jinder-mahal-vows-to-defeat-seth-rollins-regain-championship-gold-wwe-raw |work=Cageside Seats |access-date=January 13, 2024}} before Rollins accepted Mahal's challenge for a championship match on the January 15 episode of Raw,{{cite news |last1=Varble |first1=Aaron |date=January 10, 2024 |title=Tony Khan Targets WWE's Jinder Mahal In Latest Twitter Tirade |url=https://www.sescoops.com/news/tony-khan-twitter-jinder-mahal |work=SE Scoops |access-date=January 13, 2024}} where Mahal lost to Rollins. On the WrestleMania edition of SmackDown, Mahal competed in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, which he would lose. This marked his final appearance with WWE. On April 19, Mahal was released from WWE, ending his second tenure with the company.{{Cite news |last=Mendoza |first=Jordan |date=April 20, 2024 |title=Former champion Jinder Mahal leaves WWE, other stars surprisingly released on Friday |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2024/04/19/wwe-jinder-mahal-xia-li-xyon-quinn-released/73392370007/ |work=USA Today |access-date=April 20, 2024}}

On June 5, 2024, it was announced that Dhesi (now reverting back to his "Raj Dhesi" name) would make his debut for Black Label Pro (BLP) on July 26.{{Cite web |last=Sinha |first=Saptarshi |date=June 5, 2024 |title=Raj Dhesi (Jinder Mahal) Set For First Match Post-WWE Release |url=https://www.ewrestlingnews.com/news/indie/raj-dhesi-jinder-mahal-set-for-first-match-post-wwe-release |access-date=June 6, 2024 |website=eWrestlingNews.com |language=en-US}} On July 19, Dhesi made his debut for Game Changer Wrestling (GCW), attacking Effy after his match.{{Cite web |last=Gomez |first=M |date=July 20, 2024 |title=Former WWE Champion Jinder Mahal disrupts GCW event with surprise debut |url=https://www.cagesideseats.com/indies-independent-wrestling-indy-promotions/2024/7/20/24202360/former-wwe-champion-jinder-mahal-surprise-debut-gcw-raj-dhesi-effy |website=Cageside Seats|access-date=July 20, 2024}} On October 19, Dhesi would make an appearance on Night 1 of Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling's Forged In Excellence event, losing to Bully Ray in a Tables match after interference from Q. T. Marshall.{{Cite news |last=Defelice |first=Robert |date=October 19, 2024 |title=Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling Forged In Excellence Night 1 (10/19/24) Results: Konosuke Takeshita, Raj Dhesi, More |url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/results/maple-leaf-pro-wrestling-forged-excellence-night-1-101924-results-konosuke-takeshita-raj-dhesi-more/ |work=Fightful |access-date=October 19, 2024}} Dhesi would team with Bhupinder Gujjar against Bully Ray and Q.T. Marshall in a winning effort during Night 2 following a Gargoyle Spear by Gujjar.{{Cite news |last=Defelice |first=Robert |date=October 20, 2024 |title=Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling Forged In Excellence Night 2 (10/20/24) Results: Konosuke Takeshita Defends AEW International Title vs. Josh Alexander |url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/results/maple-leaf-pro-wrestling-forged-excellence-night-2-102024-results-konosuke-takeshita-defends-aew |work=Fightful |access-date=November 1, 2024}}

Dhesi, as Jinder Mahal, appears in the wrestling video games WWE '13,{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/thq/wwe-13/wwe-13-playable-characters-part-one-photos#fid-26089985|title="WWE '13" playable characters part one|publisher=WWE|access-date=January 30, 2017|archive-date=November 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107012350/http://www.wwe.com/inside/thq/wwe-13/wwe-13-playable-characters-part-one-photos#fid-26089985|url-status=live}} WWE 2K14,{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/2k/wwe-2k14/wwe-2k14-full-roster-revealed|title='WWE 2K14' full roster revealed|publisher=WWE|date=September 19, 2013|access-date=January 30, 2017|archive-date=November 16, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181116034433/https://www.wwe.com/inside/2k/wwe-2k14/wwe-2k14-full-roster-revealed|url-status=live}} WWE 2K18,{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/section/wwe-2k18/article/wwe-2k18-roster-playable-character-list|title=WWE 2K18 roster: Meet the Superstars joining the list of playable characters|publisher=WWE|date=September 27, 2017|access-date=November 4, 2017|archive-date=May 9, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190509013534/https://www.wwe.com/section/wwe-2k18/article/wwe-2k18-roster-playable-character-list|url-status=live}} WWE 2K19,{{cite web |url=https://nordic.ign.com/m/xbox-one-gaming-hardware/18381/news/wwe-2k19-roster-reveal-75-playable-superstars-announced |title=WWE 2K19 Roster Reveal: 75 Playable Superstars Announced |last=Fowler |first=Matt |website=IGN |date=August 30, 2018 |access-date=December 25, 2018 |archive-date=August 31, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180831002702/https://nordic.ign.com/m/xbox-one-gaming-hardware/18381/news/wwe-2k19-roster-reveal-75-playable-superstars-announced |url-status=live }} WWE 2K20,{{cite web|url=https://in.ign.com/india/140406/news/wwe-2k20-roster-revealed|title=WWE 2K20 Roster Revealed|last=Doke|first=Shunal|website=IGN|date=October 11, 2019|access-date=November 17, 2019|archive-date=November 17, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191117162847/https://in.ign.com/india/140406/news/wwe-2k20-roster-revealed|url-status=live}} WWE 2K22, WWE 2K23, and WWE 2K24.{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/wwe-2k22-wrestlers|title=WWE 2K22 wrestlers list sorted by Raw, Smackdown, AEW and more|last=Wilson|first=Ben|date=July 6, 2022|website=GamesRadar+|access-date=July 23, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220720065821/https://www.gamesradar.com/wwe-2k22-wrestlers/|archive-date=July 20, 2022|url-status=live}}

In October 2017, Dhesi appeared in an episode of Hindi-language sitcom Sajan Re Phir Jhooth Mat Bolo on Sony SAB.{{cite news |last1=Abhimanyu |first1=Mathur |title=WWE champ Jinder Mahal: I'd love to team up with Akshay Kumar in a tag team match |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/off-the-field/wwe-champ-jinder-mahal-id-love-to-team-up-with-akshay-kumar-in-a-tag-team-match/articleshow/61162094.cms |access-date=April 14, 2021 |work=The Times of India |date=October 22, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201110063854/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/off-the-field/wwe-champ-jinder-mahal-id-love-to-team-up-with-akshay-kumar-in-a-tag-team-match/articleshow/61162094.cms |archive-date=November 10, 2020 |quote=During his one-day Mumbai visit, Jinder shot for a guest appearance in the TV show 'Sajan Re Jhooth Mat Bolo'.}}

In November 2021, Dhesi announced he was joining the cast of the ABC drama series Big Sky.{{cite tweet|number=1461049109184405520|user=JinderMahal|title=The Maharaja has joined the cast of @BigSkyABC season 2 as Dhruv. Starting Tomorrow and every Thurs at 10/9C PM on…|date=November 17, 2021}} He debuted on the 22nd episode ("Heart-shaped Charm") as Dhruv, the enforcer of Ren's brother Jag. Through April 7, 2022, he has appeared in 9 episodes of Big Sky.

Dhesi resides in Tampa, Florida. He is fluent in English, Hindi, and Punjabi. He follows a straight edge lifestyle, which was called into question in 2017 after viewers noticed telltale signs of steroid use following his return to WWE with a drastically improved physique.{{cite web|url=https://bleedingcool.com/movies/hey-ryback-straight-edge-jinder-mahal-says-consistency-not-roids-got-stunning-physique/|title=Hey Ryback: Straight-Edge Jinder Mahal Says Consistency, Not Roids, Got Him His Stunning Physique|date=May 13, 2017|accessdate=April 20, 2023|work=Bleeding Cool|author=Terror, Jude|archive-date=April 20, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230420182540/https://bleedingcool.com/movies/hey-ryback-straight-edge-jinder-mahal-says-consistency-not-roids-got-stunning-physique/|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Terror |first1=Jude |date=April 25, 2017 |title=How Did Smackdown #1 Contender Jinder Mahal Get His Stunning Physique? Ryback Claims Secret Is In The ***s |url=https://bleedingcool.com/movies/smackdown-1-contender-jinder-mahal-get-stunning-physique-ryback-claims-secret-s/ |work=Bleedingcool |access-date=January 13, 2024}}

Dhesi is friends with mixed martial artist and fellow Indo-Canadian Arjan Bhullar.{{cite news |last1=Lynch |first1=James |last2=Sapp |first2=Sean Ross |title=Exclusive: UFC's Arjan Bhullar Talks Friendship With Jinder Mahal, Possible Move To WWE, Upcoming Fight {{!}} Fightful News |url=https://www.fightful.com/mma/exclusives/exclusive-ufc-s-arjan-bhullar-talks-friendship-jinder-mahal-possible-move-wwe-upcoming-fight |access-date=January 13, 2020 |work=www.fightful.com |date=April 4, 2018 |language=en |archive-date=April 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220428085036/https://www.fightful.com/mma/exclusives/exclusive-ufc-s-arjan-bhullar-talks-friendship-jinder-mahal-possible-move-wwe-upcoming-fight |url-status=live }} He is also good friends with fellow professional wrestlers Heath Slater and Drew McIntyre, with whom he previously formed the 3MB team.{{cite web|url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/wwe-news-heath-slater-discusses-if-he-still-talks-with-jinder-mahal-and-drew-mcintyre|title=WWE News: Heath Slater discusses if he still talks with Jinder Mahal and Drew McIntyre|author=Bennett, Jeremy|work=Sportskeedaa|date=November 16, 2017|access-date=July 16, 2022|archive-date=July 16, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220716104842/https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/wwe-news-heath-slater-discusses-if-he-still-talks-with-jinder-mahal-and-drew-mcintyre|url-status=live}}

In 2017, Canadian politician Graham Sucha tabled three documents before the Assembly, formally congratulating Dhesi for winning the WWE Championship.{{cite web|title=WWE News: Canada recognises Jinder Mahal's title win in Alberta Legislature|url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/wwe-news-canada-recognises-jinder-mahals-title-win-alberta-legislature|website=Sportskeeda|access-date=May 26, 2017|date=May 25, 2017|archive-date=April 28, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220428085036/https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/wwe-news-canada-recognises-jinder-mahals-title-win-alberta-legislature|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Canadian politicians really like honoring wrestlers for winning WWE titles|url=http://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/canadian-politicians-really-like-congratulating-wrestlers-on-winning-wwe-titles/|website=CBSSports.com|date=May 24, 2017|access-date=May 26, 2017|language=en|archive-date=May 27, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170527222812/http://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/canadian-politicians-really-like-congratulating-wrestlers-on-winning-wwe-titles/|url-status=live}}

During the 2019 Canadian federal election, Dhesi endorsed Jagmeet Singh of the New Democratic Party for Prime Minister.{{cite web|url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/federal/2019/10/17/ndp-leader-jagmeet-singh-hopes-for-lift-from-drakes-producer-as-he-hosts-final-ontario-campaign-rally-in-brampton.html|title=NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh returns to 905 community that launched his political career|author=Ballingal, Alex|work=The Star|date=October 17, 2019|access-date=October 21, 2019|archive-date=April 28, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220428085037/https://www.thestar.com/politics/federal/2019/10/17/ndp-leader-jagmeet-singh-hopes-for-lift-from-drakes-producer-as-he-hosts-final-ontario-campaign-rally-in-brampton.html|url-status=live}}

File:Jinder Mahal 072717.jpg in 2017]]

File:Jinder Mahal US champ WM34 crop.jpg in 2018]]

• All-Star Wrestling
• ASW Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Gama Singh Jr.{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=2357|title=ASW Tag Team Championship|first=Philip|last=Kreikenbohm|publisher=Cagematch - The Internet Wrestling Database|date=October 24, 2014|access-date=January 28, 2021|archive-date=March 14, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220314195823/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=2357|url-status=live}}
• Black Label Pro
• BLP Heavyweight Championship (1 time, current){{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=3823|title=BLP Heavyweight Championship|publisher=Cagematch - The Internet Wrestling Database|access-date=July 26, 2024}}
• Continental Wrestling Entertainment
• CWE Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
• Dungeon Wrestling
• Stu Hart Heritage Championship (1 time, current){{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=4926|title=Stu Hart Heritage Championship|publisher=Cagematch - The Internet Wrestling Database}}
• Future Pro Wrestling
• FPW Zero-G Championship (1 time)
• Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide
• AAA World Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Satnam Singh{{cite web|title=Raj Dhesi And Satnam Singh Win AAA Tag Team Titles At AAA TripleMania 32 CDMX|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/raj-dhesi-and-satnam-singh-win-aaa-tag-team-titles-aaa-triplemania-32-cdmx|date=August 17, 2024|first=Luis|last=Pulido|work=Fightful|access-date=August 17, 2024}}
• Prairie Wrestling Alliance
• PWA Canadian Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Gama Singh Jr.{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=2644|title=PWA Canadian Tag Team Championship|first=Philip|last=Kreikenbohm|publisher=Cagematch - The Internet Wrestling Database|date=October 20, 2007|access-date=January 28, 2021|archive-date=March 7, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220307204241/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=2644|url-status=live}}
• PWA Heavyweight Championship (2 times){{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=2642|title=PWA Heavyweight Championship|first=Philip|last=Kreikenbohm|publisher=Cagematch - The Internet Wrestling Database|date=July 4, 2009|access-date=January 28, 2021|archive-date=March 7, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220307204219/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=2642|url-status=live}}
• Pro Wrestling Illustrated
• Most Hated Wrestler of the Year (2017){{cite web|url=http://www.pwi-online.com/pages/PWIawards.html|title=PWI Awards|work=Pro Wrestling Illustrated|publisher=Kappa Publishing Group|access-date=April 11, 2018|archive-date=January 21, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160121172943/http://www.pwi-online.com/pages/PWIawards.html|url-status=dead}}
• Most Improved Wrestler of the Year (2017)
• Ranked No. 14 of the top 500 singles wrestlers in the PWI 500 in 2018{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=97&nr=230#2018|title=Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500 for 2018|access-date=October 1, 2018|work=cagematch.net|archive-date=February 26, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190226154419/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=97&nr=230#2018|url-status=live}}
• Rolling Stone
• Comeback of the Year (2017){{cite magazine|last=Herzog|first=Kenny|title=WWE Wrestler of the Year: The Miz|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-sports/wwe-wrestler-of-the-year-the-miz-116075/|magazine=Rolling Stone|date=December 19, 2017|access-date=September 24, 2020|archive-date=June 13, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210613034649/https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-sports/wwe-wrestler-of-the-year-the-miz-116075/|url-status=live}}
• Stampede Wrestling
• Stampede Wrestling International Tag Team Championship (2 times) – with Gama Singh Jr.{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=175|title=Stampede Wrestling International Tag Team Championship|first=Philip|last=Kreikenbohm|publisher=Cagematch - The Internet Wrestling Database|date=March 4, 2005|access-date=January 28, 2021|archive-date=March 7, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220307204227/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=175|url-status=live}}
• Wrestling Observer Newsletter
• Most Overrated (2017){{cite web|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/wrestling-observer-radio/wor-2017-wrestling-observer-newsletter-awards-discussion-and-more-253601|title=WOR: 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter Awards Discussion and More!|last=Alvarez|first=Bryan|author-link=Bryan Alvarez|date=March 15, 2018|access-date=March 15, 2018|work=Wrestling Observer Newsletter|archive-date=March 15, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180315141244/https://www.f4wonline.com/wrestling-observer-radio/wor-2017-wrestling-observer-newsletter-awards-discussion-and-more-253601|url-status=live}}
• WrestleCrap
• Gooker Award (2017) – {{small|Winning the WWE Championship}}{{cite web|title=Induction: Jinder Mahal, WWE Champion – THE 2017 Gooker Award Winner (For Real This Time)|url=http://wrestlecrap.com/inductions/jinder-mahal-gooker-2017/|website=WrestleCrap|access-date=April 29, 2018|date=January 19, 2018}}
• WWE
• WWE Championship (1 time){{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/wwe-championship|title=WWE Championship|publisher=WWE|access-date=May 21, 2017|archive-date=June 29, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160629011310/http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/wwe-championship|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=20|title=WWE Championship|first=Philip|last=Kreikenbohm|publisher=Cagematch - The Internet Wrestling Database|date=May 21, 2017|access-date=January 28, 2021|archive-date=May 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210518202813/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=20|url-status=live}}
• WWE United States Championship (1 time){{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/unitedstates|title=United States Championship|publisher=WWE|access-date=April 10, 2018|archive-date=January 13, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160113024140/http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/unitedstates/5192013-dean-ambrose|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=62|title=WWE United States Championship|first=Philip|last=Kreikenbohm|publisher=Cagematch - The Internet Wrestling Database|date=April 8, 2018|access-date=January 28, 2021|archive-date=December 14, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071214212908/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=62|url-status=live}}
• WWE 24/7 Championship (2 times){{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/24-7-championship|title=WWE 24/7 Championship|publisher=WWE|access-date=May 26, 2019|archive-date=February 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210222025036/https://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/24-7-championship|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=4219|title=WWE 24/7 Championship|first=Philip|last=Kreikenbohm|publisher=Cagematch - The Internet Wrestling Database|date=June 2, 2019|access-date=January 28, 2021|archive-date=December 14, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071214212908/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=4219|url-status=live}}

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Category:1986 births

Category:Living people

Category:Canadian people of Punjabi descent

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