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WWE Releases 2025 Full List And Superstar Reactions
Which WWE superstars were released in 2025? See the full updated list, why they were let go, and what each wrestler said about their exit.
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All WWE Superstars Released in 2025 So Far
WWE made some surprising decisions in 2025, including letting go of some big-name superstars from their contracts. From NXT to the main roster, many known and promising talents were released. One reason behind this was to make space for new names in the company.
Who has been released by WWE in 2025?
In the first phase of releases this year, WWE removed several experienced and young wrestlers from the roster. This decision came after some internal changes in different departments like the creative team and photography.
The first few names to be released included Sonya Deville, Blair Davenport, Paul Ellering, Authors of Pain (Akam & Rezar), and Cedric Alexander. Later, WWE also released veterans Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows for a second time. Their recent run in the company lasted a little over two years.
Carmella, a former WWE Women’s World Champion, was away from TV since her pregnancy in early 2023. Her 12-year journey with WWE officially ended, and she is now listed as an alum on the WWE website.
Just before the May episode of SmackDown, more releases were confirmed. This time it included big names like Braun Strowman, Shayna Baszler, and Dakota Kai, along with some upcoming NXT stars.
WWE Superstars Released in 2025 (So Far)
| Released Superstars |
|---|
| Duke Hudson |
| Cedric Alexander |
| Authors of Pain (Akam & Rezar) |
| Paul Ellering |
| Blair Davenport |
| Sonya Deville |
| Isla Dawn |
| Karl Anderson & Luke Gallows |
| Giovanni Vinci |
| Elektra Lopez |
| Carmella |
| Shayna Baszler |
| Dakota Kai |
| Braun Strowman |
| Kayden Carter |
| Katana Chance |
| Gigi Dolin |
| Eddy Thorpe |
| Javier Bernal |
| Oro Mensah |
| Wolfgang |
| Mark Coffey |
| Joe Coffey |
| Cora Jade |
| Riley Osborne |
| Dani Palmer |
| Shotzi |
| R-Truth |
| Carlito |
Sonya Deville said on her podcast that she accepted the decision calmly. She believes everything happens for a reason and that this chapter had to end for new things to begin.
Isla Dawn shared a short Instagram story saying, “Here for a good time not a long time. See you in 90,” meaning she will be a free agent after 90 days.
Cedric Alexander wrote on X, “Thank you for the last 8 1/2 years! Being a professional wrestler was always my dream and I’ll keep doing it as long as I can.”
Cora Jade posted even before the news was out, “Thankful for all the childhood dreams I got to live out! I have a lot to say in due time. Stay tuned.” She also changed her name back to Elayna Black, which she used before joining WWE.
Oro Mensah said, “15 years of hard work and true sacrifice to reach WWE. I gave it everything. Thank you for the support.”
Shayna Baszler shared, “No one can offer what I bring. Reality. Let the Galaxy burn.”
Shotzi wrote, “I am more than grateful for the wild ride! Can’t wait to see where this crazy journey takes me next! I hope to make all my believers proud.”
Dakota Kai shared a popular GTA meme saying, “Ah Shi*t, here we go again!” and Braun Strowman simply posted a photo of a drink.
R-Truth and Carlito announced their exits themselves on X. Their contracts won’t be renewed. Both have always entertained fans and will be remembered for their fun personalities.
What happens next?
All the released wrestlers will go through a 90-day non-compete period. During this time, they can’t join any other wrestling company. Once that time is over, they will be free to sign elsewhere.
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