Multiple outlets have reported several recent departures from WWE’s main roster, including the unexpected exits of Aleister Black and Zelina Vega. This news follows their reunion on SmackDown last year, which occurred after Black’s return to WWE post-WrestleMania 41. He had been slated for a significant storyline involving Randy Orton, but that plan fell through in light of developments surrounding broadcaster Pat McAfee. As a result, both Black and Vega are set to become free agents, according to reports from Fightful and BodySlam.
The departures extend beyond Black and Vega; Kairi Sane, a prominent figure in the women’s division and a multi-time Women’s Tag Team Champion, is also among those leaving. She was actively involved in a storyline featuring Asuka and IYO SKY, indicating her importance within the ongoing narrative until her exit.
Additionally, reports detail the departures of other main roster stars, including Apollo Crews, Santos Escobar, and the Motor City Machine Guns, who are former WWE Tag Team Champions. Every member of the faction known as the Wyatt Sicks has also reportedly left the company.
Nikki Cross, the former WWE Women’s Champion, announced her departure first, revealing via social media that she had concluded her over ten-year tenure with WWE. Throughout her recent two years in the Wyatt Sicks, her in-ring activity waned significantly, with her last match occurring during a holiday tour in December 2024.
No exact number of additional potential releases has been confirmed, but industry insiders indicate that ongoing cuts are likely, following the pattern established in previous years following WrestleMania.
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