WWE Wes Lee

WWE’s Latest NXT/Evolve Talent Bloodbath: 12 Wrestling Talents Released (October 2025)

Nicholas Mullick

Here we go again with another round of WWE cuts, and boy, did they pick some timing for this one. Just hours before Crown Jewel was set to kick off in Perth, WWE decided it was the perfect moment to hand out pink slips like Halloween candy. The wrestling world woke up to the news that twelve WWE superstars had been shown the door, and honestly? Some of these names will make you scratch your head.

The Full List of WWE Departures

For those keeping score at home, here’s everyone who got their release papers:

  • Wes Lee
  • Lance Anoa’i
  • Stevie Turner
  • Jin Tala
  • Drako Knox
  • Haze Jameson
  • Summer Sorrell
  • Brayden “BJ” Ray
  • Jamar Hampton
  • Kylie Rae
  • Zayda Steel
  • Zara Zakher

Most of these names were part of WWE’s developmental system or EVOLVE program, which makes a bit more sense from a business perspective. Developmental deals are always more precarious, and companies regularly trim the fat in their training programs. But when you’re cutting established names like Lee and Turner? That’s when eyebrows start raising.

The Surprising Names Getting Their Walking Papers

Let’s start with the biggest shocker on this list: Wes Lee. Now, if you’re not familiar with Lee, here’s the deal – this guy was a former NXT North American Champion who seemed destined for bigger things. He was part of The Rascalz over in TNA Wrestling (back when he went by Dezmond Xavier), and he had so much potential.

But here’s where it gets interesting. Lee suffered a serious back injury in 2023 that had folks genuinely worried he might have to hang up his boots for good. The man fought back, made his return having a damn good NXT North American Championship run. Go back and watch his match with Dominik Mysterio it was really good. However, he  wrestled sporadically throughout 2025. Maybe that sporadic schedule didn’t sit well with the powers that be in Stamford. Still, cutting a former champion? That’s some cold business right there.

Stevie Turner Another Notable Name Cut That Was A Surprise

Then we’ve got Stevie Turner, who made her way from the now-defunct NXT UK brand to the main NXT roster. She was doing her thing as a co-assistant general manager alongside Robert Stone under Ava’s watch. Turner seemed to be carving out a nice little niche for herself in the authority figure role, but apparently, that wasn’t enough to keep her around.

When Family Ties Don’t Matter

Lance Anoa’i got his release too. Yeah, you read that right – we’re talking about Roman Reigns‘ cousin here. In a company where being part of the Anoa’i family tree usually comes with some job security (and rightfully so, given their contributions to the business), seeing Lance get cut is pretty telling.

The guy quietly signed with WWE last year, but injuries kept him from really making an impact. He’s already posted his booking information on social media and if he can stay healthy he should be a great addition. Anoa’i himself tweeted that he didn’t have the best luck since arriving due to injures, but he’s not letting this stop him from chasing greatness.

What’s Next for the Released Talent?

The silver lining here is that professional wrestling has never been more diverse in terms of opportunities. TNA Wrestling, Game Changer Wrestling, All Elite Wrestling, New Japan Pro Wrestling, and countless independent promotions are always looking for proven talent.

Wes Lee, in particular, might have some interesting options. The others will likely find their footing on the independent scene, where many wrestlers actually make better money and have more creative freedom than they do in WWE’s developmental system.

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