EXCLUSIVE

Dolphin hunters beware ... ex-WWE superstar Brodus Clay has big plans following his release from the company today -- he's headed for Japan to protect dolphins from being captured and killed.

Brodus says he booked a trip to Japan for this summer and plans to protest dolphin hunting. He's been passionate about the cause ever since seeing the Oscar winning documentary, "The Cove".

The Funkasaurus tells us he's bummed about losing his job -- WWE cut a total of 9 wrestlers today -- but he's excited to do some other things -- like acting and writing a book.

Brodus says he's open to any wrestling opportunities he might get in Japan -- but his main focus is "bringing awareness to the cause" of the dolphins.