• Why Ava Decided To Leave WWE Despite More Money Being Offered
The wrestling world was caught off guard when Ava (Simone Johnson) suddenly announced her WWE departure, but the truth behind her exit has finally surfaced.
Despite her high-profile role as NXT’s youngest General Manager, the fourth-generation star decided she didn’t want to do it anymore. The Wrestling Observer confirmed that the decision was entirely her own. Unlike most talent who fight to stay in the industry, the 24-year-old reportedly felt no “compelling reason” to continue.
The timing of her departure sparked immediate rumors regarding her personal life. Speculation has swirled that the recent, quiet release of her girlfriend, WWE LFG talent Tatyanna Dumas, may have been the final straw.
While WWE never publicly announced Dumas’ exit, insiders noted the connection, though the Observer clarified that it’s unclear if that was the primary motive or just a contributing factor.
Bodyslam later added that WWE even offered Ava more money to stay, but she turned it down and decided she won’t sign a new contract.
Before becoming the General Manager of NXT, Ava had a short run as a wrestler on NXT. In 2023, she had 6 matches in NXT. Her debut match took place at NXT Stand & Deliver 2023 Kickoff. Her last match took place at NXT Heatwave 2023, where she lost to Ivy Nile.
• Producer For AJ Styles’ Final Match Revealed
AJ Styles passed out to Gunther’s sleeper hold in a career-threatening match at Royal Rumble 2026 and lost. The Phenomenal One’s career is over and the former WWE Champion is officially retired.
On the Royal Rumble post show, Triple H confirmed that AJ’s in-ring career is over and said he hopes AJ will remain with WWE and contribute in a backstage role like Shawn Michaels.
According to PWInsider, below are the producers for the Royal Rumble 2026 PLE matches:
Women’s Royal Rumble Match: TJ Wilson (Tyson Kidd), Petey Williams, Jason Jordan, Kenn Doane
AJ Styles vs. Gunther: Adam Pearce
Drew McIntyre vs. Sami Zayn for the Undisputed WWE Championship: Chris Park (Abyss)
Men’s Royal Rumble Match: Bobby Roode, Michael Hayes, Shane Helms, Jamie Noble
Also Read: Gunther Failed To Achieve His 2 Goals For Royal Rumble 2026
