The wrestling world is reeling from the latest WWE releases, announced on May 2, 2025, just before “Friday Night SmackDown.” In a move that caught fans off guard, WWE parted ways with several prominent talents, including Braun Strowman, Dakota Kai, Shayna Baszler, Kayden Carter, Katana Chance, and Gigi Dolin. These cuts, confirmed by Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp, mark a significant shake-up in the post-WrestleMania roster, leaving fans buzzing with speculation about the future of these stars. Let’s dive into the details of this bombshell, explore the impact, and look at what might be next for these performers.
Breaking Down the WWE Releases: Who’s Out?
The WWE releases hit hard, targeting both main roster heavyweights and rising stars. Braun Strowman, a former Universal Champion, is the biggest name on the list. This marks his second exit from WWE, having been released in 2021 before returning in 2022. Dakota Kai, a fan-favorite and former NXT Women’s Tag Team Champion, also got the boot, despite her recent absence from TV sparking rumors of injury or creative limbo. Shayna Baszler, a dominant force in NXT and a former Women’s Tag Team Champion, was another surprise cut. The tag team of Kayden Carter and Katana Chance, who held both NXT and WWE Women’s Tag Team titles, were let go, as was NXT’s Gigi Dolin. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Braun Strowman: Former Universal Champion, released for the second time.
- Dakota Kai: Former NXT Women’s Tag Team Champion, absent from TV since March.
- Shayna Baszler: Former NXT Women’s Champion, known for her MMA background.
- Kayden Carter & Katana Chance: Former WWE and NXT Women’s Tag Team Champions.
- Gigi Dolin: NXT star with potential, part of Toxic Attraction.
These releases, reported by Wrestling Inc. and Post Wrestling, have fans questioning WWE’s direction, especially after a strong WrestleMania 41 buildup.
Why Now? The Timing of WWE Releases
The timing of these WWE releases raises eyebrows. Coming right after WrestleMania season, when rosters typically stabilize, the cuts feel abrupt. WWE’s history of post-Mania roster trims isn’t new, but targeting established names like Strowman and Baszler suggests deeper strategic shifts. Some speculate budget cuts or a pivot toward newer talent, while others point to creative frustrations. Dakota Kai’s puzzling absence since March, despite her tweeting she wasn’t injured, fueled debate about WWE’s booking. Posts on X reflect fan shock, with @TribalMegastar calling the moves “INSANE” and @VKMParody lamenting the loss of talent used inconsistently. Could this signal a leaner roster or a focus on fresh faces? Only time will tell, but the wrestling community is on edge.
The Impact on WWE’s Landscape
Losing these stars reshapes WWE’s divisions. Strowman’s departure leaves a void in the men’s heavyweight scene, where his monster persona was a draw, even if his booking felt stagnant lately. His feud with Jacob Fatu, highlighted in a brutal Last Man Standing match on April 4, 2025, showed he still had gas in the tank. Dakota Kai’s exit hurts the women’s division, particularly Damage CTRL, which she helped anchor. Baszler’s technical prowess and Carter and Chance’s tag team chemistry were underutilized, and their releases might push WWE to rethink its women’s tag division. Gigi Dolin’s cut stings for NXT fans, as her charisma was a highlight. As DraftKings Network noted, updates are ongoing, hinting more names could follow, keeping fans glued to their screens.
What’s Next for the Released Stars?
The future looks bright for these talents outside WWE. Strowman, with his larger-than-life presence, could thrive in AEW, where big men like Wardlow shine, or even Japan’s NJPW, which values powerhouse wrestlers. Dakota Kai, only 36, has indie cred and could return to promotions like Stardom or join AEW’s stacked women’s roster. Baszler’s MMA background makes her a prime candidate for crossover ventures or AEW’s hard-hitting style. Carter and Chance might stick together, targeting AEW or Impact Wrestling’s tag divisions. Gigi Dolin, young and versatile, could dominate the indies or land in AEW’s growing women’s scene. WrestlingHeadlines.com reports AEW’s interest in ex-WWE stars, and with Forbidden Door 2025 looming, cross-promotional opportunities abound. Fans on X are already fantasy-booking, with @Cultaholic speculating on Strowman’s next move.
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Fan Reactions and the Bigger Picture
The WWE releases have ignited passionate reactions online. Fans feel torn—disappointed by WWE’s decisions but excited for the stars’ potential elsewhere. @WrestleClips’ post, with a crying emoji, captures the heartbreak, while @ITRWrestling_’s report underscores the news’ weight. These cuts follow WWE’s earlier 2025 releases, like Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson in February, per Newsweek, showing a pattern of roster streamlining. Yet, WWE’s official site remains silent on the May cuts, focusing instead on upcoming events. This disconnect frustrates fans, who crave transparency. The releases also spark debate about WWE’s creative direction under Triple H. Is the company clearing space for NXT call-ups or prioritizing profitability over loyalty? The wrestling world is watching closely.
A New Chapter Awaits
As the dust settles on these WWE releases, one thing is clear: change is constant in wrestling. Braun Strowman, Dakota Kai, and their peers are down but not out. Their talent, resilience, and fan support guarantee they’ll land on their feet, whether in AEW, NJPW, or the indies. For WWE, the gamble is whether these cuts strengthen the product or alienate fans. The coming weeks will reveal more, with rumors of additional releases swirling. Stay tuned to sources like Fightful and Wrestling Inc. for updates, and keep an eye on X for real-time fan buzz. Wrestling’s unpredictability is its heartbeat, and this latest twist proves it’s still pumping strong. Where do you think these stars will go next? Drop your thoughts below and join the conversation!