WWE has dropped a bombshell with a massive roster shake-up in May 2025, releasing top-tier talents like Braun Strowman, Shayna Baszler, and Dakota Kai. In a move that echoes the company’s notorious “spring cleaning,” over 15 superstars, including rising NXT talents and tag team champions, have been shown the door.
While some exits were expected due to injuries or lack of airtime, fan-favorites like Baszler and Kai sent shockwaves through the WWE Universe. Social media exploded with reactions as the list of releases grew longer. The future of these stars is now wide open, with AEW, Impact, and international promotions likely lining up with offers.
This strategic cut hints at WWE's evolving direction, possibly paving the way for new creative storylines, fresh talent pushes, or budget reallocations ahead of SummerSlam season.
đ„ Major Main Roster Releases
Braun Strowman
A former Universal and Intercontinental Champion, Braun Strowman's second tenure with WWE has concluded. Despite a strong return in 2022, his recent appearances were limited, with his last match being a tag team victory alongside LA Knight against Jacob Fatu and Solo Sikoa on April 18, 2025 .
Shayna Baszler
Known for her dominant NXT Women's Championship reign and two Women's Tag Team Title runs, Baszler's release marks the end of her WWE journey. She responded to the news on social media, stating, "No one can offer what I have to offer. Reality. Let the Galaxy burn" .
Dakota Kai
A key member of the Damage CTRL faction, Kai held tag team titles in both NXT and the main roster. Her release comes as a surprise, especially considering her recent involvement in storylines .
đ Additional Talent Departures
The following superstars have also been released:
-
Kayden Carter & Katana Chance: Former Women's Tag Team Champions who struggled to find consistent momentum on the main roster .
-
Cora Jade: Once a promising NXT talent, Jade confirmed her release on social media, expressing gratitude for her experiences .
-
Gigi Dolin: Former member of Toxic Attraction and two-time NXT Women's Tag Team Champion, Dolin announced her departure via social media .
-
Gallus (Joe Coffey, Mark Coffey, Wolfgang): The trio's release leaves a void in the NXT tag team division .
-
Eddy Thorpe, Jakara Jackson, Riley Osborne: Emerging NXT talents who are now free agents .
đ Full List of Released WWE Superstars (May 2, 2025)
-
Braun Strowman
-
Shayna Baszler
-
Dakota Kai
-
Kayden Carter
-
Katana Chance
-
Cora Jade
-
Gigi Dolin
-
Joe Coffey
-
Mark Coffey
-
Wolfgang
-
Eddy Thorpe
-
Jakara Jackson
-
Riley Osborne
-
Oro Mensah
-
Javier Bernal .
âł Contractual Obligations
As per standard WWE contracts, main roster talents are subject to a 90-day non-compete clause, while NXT performers have a 30-day restriction. This means the released superstars will be eligible to appear in other promotions after these periods .
đ Industry Implications
This wave of releases underscores WWE's ongoing efforts to restructure its roster post-WrestleMania. While some departures were anticipated due to limited TV time or injury histories, others, like those of Strowman and Baszler, have left fans and analysts speculating about the company's future direction. The released talents, many of whom have significant fan followings, are expected to attract interest from other wrestling promotions worldwide.
