NXT and WWE Talent Releases Shake Up the Wrestling World

WWE has recently let go of several talents from its developmental system, causing a stir in the wrestling community. The list of released wrestlers includes Stevie Turner, Lance Anoaʻi, Darko Knox, Jamar Hampton, and Zara Zhaker. These departures, which seem to be part of routine cuts, were announced by the wrestlers on their social media accounts.

Reactions from Released Wrestlers

Lance Anoa’i, a notable member of the Anoa’i wrestling family, publicized his release on former social platform X. Contesting his own luck, Anoa’i stated, “I didn’t have the best of luck since I arrived! I will not let this stop me from achieving to be great! I’ve worked hard on the indies for 15 years! Now let’s get back to work!” He indicated a 30-day non-compete clause, typical for NXT contracts. Anoa’i, related to wrestling legends Samu and Afa, joined WWE in the summer of 2024. Unfortunately, an injury prevented his debut. Despite this setback, he has an impressive background as a former MLW World Tag Team Champion.

Stevie Turner, well-known for her roles on the NXT UK, NXT, and WWE Evolve brands, also announced her exit. Turner joined WWE in 2021, starting with NXT UK before transitioning to the main NXT brand. In 2025, she was declared the on-screen General Manager for the revived Evolve brand. Prior to WWE, she was a significant figure on the UK independent circuit as Bobbi Tyler, where she clinched six titles across various promotions.

Zara Zhaker and the WWE ID Program

Zara Zhaker, another talent hailing from the WWE ID program, disclosed on social media that her contract had ended and she would be “taking a step back from wrestling.” She was among the first prospects of the WWE ID initiative aimed at bridging independent wrestlers into the WWE environment.

Additional Departures and Future Implications

Jamar Hampton and Darko Knox, both having participated in the WWE developmental system with appearances on the WWE Evolve show, also shared their departures. Hampton had previously gained attention in July 2025 for his posts critiquing WWE’s handling of Hulk Hogan’s legacy posthumously.

These releases signal WWE’s ongoing efforts to streamline its developmental pipeline, which currently integrates:

• The main NXT brand
• The WWE ID program meant for independent talent
• The Evolve brand, showcasing a blend of Performance Center trainees and ID prospects

As WWE progresses with its strategies, Emegypt will closely observe the developments in these programs and the future endeavors of the released talents.