The world of professional wrestling is no stranger to surprising twists and turns, but WWE’s latest round of roster cuts in 2025 has sent shockwaves throughout the industry.
From established veterans to rising stars, the 2025 WWE releases have left fans stunned and speculating about the reasoning behind these decisions. Let’s break down the biggest names released, the possible reasons behind the cuts, and what’s next for both WWE and the superstars affected.
The List of WWE Superstars Released in 2025
WWE has officially parted ways with several talents, with some of the most notable names including:
- Sonya Deville: One of the most shocking names on the list, Sonya Deville had been a staple of WWE television for years. From her time as an in-ring competitor to her stint as a WWE official, Deville had played multiple roles and remained a key figure in both the women’s division and management storylines. Her release has surprised fans, especially considering her strong presence on SmackDown in recent months.
- The Authors of Pain (Akam & Rezar) & Paul Ellering: After returning to WWE with their legendary manager Paul Ellering, The Authors of Pain seemed poised for a major push in the tag team division. However, despite their reputation as dominant forces in the ring, their release indicates that WWE may be shifting its focus in the tag division. The decision to also release Paul Ellering suggests that WWE is closing the book on the AOP experiment for good.
- Cedric Alexander: A former Cruiserweight Champion, Cedric Alexander had been an integral part of WWE’s cruiserweight and tag team divisions. After the announcement, Alexander took to social media to express gratitude for his WWE career, stating: “Thank you for the last 8 1/2 years! Being a professional wrestler has been a dream of mine since I could form memories, and I will continue to do so till the good Lord says otherwise.” This heartfelt message suggests that Alexander is ready for the next chapter of his career, potentially outside of WWE.
- Blair Davenport: Competing under the SmackDown brand, Blair Davenport had made waves in NXT UK and WWE’s main roster. Many saw her as a future star in the women’s division, making her release another unexpected move by the company.
Why Did WWE Release These Superstars?
Every year, WWE undergoes roster evaluations, leading to releases that often leave fans puzzled. The 2025 roster cuts could be due to several key reasons:
- Budget Cuts & Financial Strategy: Despite WWE’s massive success, corporate restructuring and financial strategies often lead to talent releases. Cutting contracts, especially those of underutilized stars, allows the company to reallocate funds to other areas such as new signings, production enhancements, or media deals.
- Creative Changes: WWE frequently makes major shifts in creative direction, which sometimes results in certain superstars no longer fitting into long-term plans. The releases of The Authors of Pain and Paul Ellering suggest that WWE might be moving away from their previous plans for the tag team division.
- NXT & Developmental Prioritization: With NXT continuing to produce fresh talent, WWE often releases main roster stars to make room for rising competitors.
What’s Next for the Released Superstars?
While WWE’s decision to cut these talents may seem abrupt, history has shown that released wrestlers often thrive outside of the company. Here’s where some of these superstars might land:
- AEW (All Elite Wrestling): AEW has become a prime destination for ex-WWE talent looking for more creative freedom and TV time.
- Impact Wrestling & NJPW: Promotions like Impact Wrestling and New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) have welcomed former WWE stars with open arms. The Authors of Pain could find a new home in Japan, competing in NJPW’s tag division, where hard-hitting teams thrive.
- Independent Wrestling & International Promotions: Many released wrestlers take the independent wrestling route, competing for major promotions worldwide. Blair Davenport, with her UK wrestling background, could easily return to Progress Wrestling or RevPro.
- A Potential WWE Return?: Not all WWE releases are permanent. With wrestling being unpredictable, some of these names could find their way back to WWE in the future.
What Does This Mean for WWE?
The 2025 roster cuts indicate a shift in WWE’s priorities, likely signaling a new era in creative direction.
While some of these departures sting, wrestling history has shown that every release creates new opportunities. Whether in AEW, Impact, NJPW, or on the independent circuit, expect these superstars to make waves wherever they land.
Stay tuned for more breaking WWE news, analysis, and updates on Flavor of Stories.
