WWE Superstars Released May 2025: Who Has Been Released from The WWE?

It’s that time of year again, and honestly, it never gets easier.

WWE’s infamous “spring cleaning” is back in full force this May 2025, and this round of roster cuts has sent shockwaves through both fans and talent alike. While it’s not unusual for WWE to release talent around this time, the names on this list? They’re not your typical under-the-radar wrestlers. We’re talking about main roster stars, rising NXT talent, and even longtime employees.

Let’s take a closer look at who was let go and why this round feels different.

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What’s Going On With WWE’s Latest Roster Cuts?

Every few years, WWE trims down its roster. Sometimes it’s to “shake things up,” and other times it’s simply cost-cutting. Whatever the reason, it always leaves fans with a sour taste—especially when their favorite stars are shown the door.

This year, the cuts came early in May and hit both the main roster and NXT hard. Rumors had been swirling for weeks that a big round of releases was coming, and now it’s official.

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Who Were the Main Roster Superstars Released?

Let’s start with the big names that stunned everyone:

• Braun Strowman
• Dakota Kai
• Shayna Baszler
• Kayden Carter
• Katana Chance

That’s not a minor list. Braun Strowman is a former Universal Champion and a giant in every sense. Dakota Kai? Fans were just starting to rally behind her as she looked to climb the women’s division again. She was even rumored to be in line to win the first-ever Women’s Intercontinental Championship.

This one hurts, no doubt.

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What Happened Over in NXT?

While the main roster cuts were shocking, NXT wasn’t spared either. Here are the names released from the developmental brand:

• Cora Jade
• Gigi Dolin
• Eddy Thorpe
• Jakara Jackson
• Riley Osborne
• Joe Coffey
• Mark Coffey
• Wolfgang
• Oro Mensah
• Javier Bernal

It’s a deep list. Cora Jade and Gigi Dolin were two of the most popular women in NXT. They brought charisma, intensity, and a loyal fanbase. Eddy Thorpe was finally picking up momentum, and Jakara Jackson was becoming a regular face on weekly TV.

The NXT UK trio of Joe Coffey, Mark Coffey, and Wolfgang — known as Gallus — are also gone. It’s a big blow to the tag division down there.

Was There Anyone Released Behind the Scenes?

Yes, and this one stings for longtime fans of WWE content.

Ryan Pappolla, a familiar face to those who followed WWE Digital and social platforms, was also released. He had been with the company for 10 years and became one of the most liked voices behind the scenes.

Why Are Fans So Shocked?

Let’s be real — releases happen. But it’s the timing and the names that are throwing people off.

Dakota Kai was on the verge of something special. Cora Jade and Gigi Dolin had serious potential to be the next big names in the women’s division. Braun Strowman was a top-tier guy just a couple of years ago.

This didn’t feel like trimming the fat. It felt like removing future main-eventers.

Are More WWE Releases Coming?

Yes, sadly, more names are expected, especially from NXT.

This first wave might just be the beginning. WWE seems to be going through another phase of “rebuilding” or shifting focus. Whether that’s due to internal changes or budget cuts, we don’t fully know yet.

But if history tells us anything, we’ll likely see more surprises — and not the good kind.

Which WWE release shocked you the most? Let us know in the comments. And stay tuned — because this story isn’t over yet.