The landscape of the WWE is ever-evolving, and that has never been more apparent than this week.
Not only were several NXT stars promoted to the main roster, but WWE on Friday made a few notable roster cuts.
Former SmackDown standouts Alestair Black and Zelina Vega, Bo Dallas, Nikki Cross and former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion Kairi Sane were among those released. In total, there were 23 confirmed releases.
Amid the rash of roster cuts, WWE star Rhea Ripley called it “the worst time of the year” and offered an encouraging word to those affected.
“Today’s been a very sad day. Absolutely gutted for my friends and comrades. Worst time of the year. Go prove them all wrong!”
Ripley, teaming with Iyo Sky, fought Sane in a tag team match on Monday’s RAW. She previously held tag team gold with Cross.
WWE Fans Stunned by Kairi Sane Release
HeavyWWE released over a dozen wrestlers this week
Sane quietly built an impressive resume during her time in the WWE ranks.
The Japanese wrestler won the inaugural Mae Young Classic, captured the NXT Women’s Championship, and, alongside Asuka, dominated the tag team division as The Kabuki Warriors.
The Kabuki Warriors, known for their high-flying ability and intensity, were among the biggest RAW crowd-pleasers.
Sane, alongside, Asuka, held multiple WWE Women’s Tag Team titles.
In the wake of her release, WWE fans shared their surprise on social media.
(via @FightfulSelect)
“As talented as Kairi Sane is she was always an underutilized role player in the WWE,” a user replied.
“Mind you, she should have been IC champion and had a triple threat match against Asuka and Iyo at Mania!” a user commented, fantasizing over potential missed opportunities.
“This is one of the most unacceptable releases in WWE history. I’m fuming,” another commented.
In addition to being shocked by her release, some fans pointed out that it leaves her budding feud with Asuka unresolved.
Perhaps one day the Pirate Princess will return to settle unfinished business. For now, the Kabuki Warriors have been reduced to a lone fighter.
NXT Stars Are Invading the Main Roster
GettyNXT standouts competed at WrestleMania 42
The next generation of WWE wrestling is on the horizon.
Former NXT Champion Oba Femi recently dethroned the Beast Incarnate at WrestleMania 42, and he may not be the last NXT alumni to rise against WWE’s living legends.
Less than a year removed from their WWE debut, Je’Von Evans and Trick Williams both competed in title matches at WrestleMania, with the latter defeating Sami Zayn for the United States Championship.
Now, the former NXT standouts will be joined by a few former allies and rivals on the main roster.
On Monday, Ethan Page, Sol Ruca and Zaria all debuted on RAW on Netflix. Longtime WWE commentator Michael Cole announced that former NXT Champion Joe Hendry will also join the RAW roster.
Over on SmackDown, Fatal Influence, Fallon Henley, Jacy Jayne, and Lainey Reid all debuted on WWE, attacking Charlotte Flair, Paige, Brie Bella and Alexa Bliss.
The influx of rising talent is a welcome sight. Especially given the hole left by the recent retirements of WWE legends John Cena and AJ Styles.
Rhea Ripley Calls WWE Roster Cuts the “Worst Time of the Year”