Below are a couple of top WWE & AEW news stories of the day.
• “He was hurt worse than people realized” – Update On A WWE Release
Former Universal Champion Braun Strowman was released from WWE on May 2, as part of a wave of roster cuts. According to the Wrestling Observer, the decision was influenced by a combination of his high salary and ongoing injury issues.
They reported that Strowman had not been moving well in the ring since returning from a major hamstring injury, and one source noted that “he was hurt worse than people realized”.
Strowman’s release came alongside several other notable departures, including Shayna Baszler and Dakota Kai. While budgetary considerations were a factor in these cuts, Strowman’s situation was further complicated by concerns over his physical condition and performance capabilities.
Bill Apter later reported that Strowman has an agreement with WWE after his release:
“I heard that it was not an angry break, and if they call him 6 months or a year down the road, ‘We need you for 3 or 4 months,’ he would be willing to do it again. The door is open.”
Despite his injuries, Strowman remained a popular figure among fans. His feuds with Bronson Reed and Jacob Fatu were particularly well-received. However, internal assessments of his health and the financial implications of his contract ultimately led to his departure from the company.
Strowman’s last match in WWE occurred on April 4, 2025, where he faced Jacob Fatu in a Last Man Standing match on SmackDown.
Also Read: Mercedes Mone Loses One Of Her Titles
• People In WWE Want Popular Released Star To Sign With AEW
Dakota Kai was one of the 16 wrestlers released by WWE last week. Despite the release, many within the company still hold her in high regard.
According to the Wrestling Observer, Kai is viewed as a strong candidate for All Elite Wrestling:
“Dakota Kai (Cherrie Crowley, 37) wrestled on the indie scene as Evie from 2007 until signing with WWE at the end of 2016. Those we talked to in WWE were positive on her and felt AEW should sign her. She’s a very good wrestler, has a name, and fans will know her immediately.”
Kai wrestled for nearly a decade as Evie before joining WWE in 2016. Her experience, reputation, and name recognition now make her a valuable free agent.
