Dakota Kai and Braun strowman WWE departure explained: WWE Releases Braun Strowman & More in Surprising Cuts: WWE has once again reshaped its roster, cutting several high-profile stars, including Braun Strowman, Dakota Kai, Shayna Baszler, and more. These moves come amid WWE’s post-WrestleMania restructuring, leaving fans questioning the company’s next steps.
With well-known talents suddenly out, speculation surrounds their potential signings in AEW, Impact Wrestling, NJPW, or independent circuits. Let’s dive into the most notable releases and what this means for WWE’s future.
WWE Releases Braun Strowman, Dakota Kai & More in a Shocking Roster Shake-Up
Braun Strowman’s Departure: Why Did WWE Let Him Go Again?
Among the most surprising releases, Braun Strowman’s exit stands out. A former Universal Champion, Strowman built his reputation on unmatched power and an intimidating in-ring presence.
Strowman’s Rise in WWE
- His rivalry with Roman Reigns, Brock Lesnar, and Bray Wyatt cemented him as a top-tier competitor.
- Winning the Universal Championship in 2020 demonstrated WWE’s willingness to position him as a key player.
Why WWE Released Him Again
- After being released in 2021, his return in 2022 lacked strong creative direction.
- Instead of main-event storylines, he became stuck in mid-card feuds, limiting his impact.
Where He Might Go Next
- AEW could capitalize on his stature, potentially placing him in powerhouse matchups against Wardlow or Powerhouse Hobbs.
- Impact Wrestling, known for rebuilding careers, might suit him well alongside stars like Moose and Josh Alexander.
Although WWE moved on, Strowman’s career remains far from over. His next destination will certainly generate excitement among fans.
Major Changes in the Women’s Division
In addition to Strowman, WWE made bold decisions regarding its women’s roster, releasing Dakota Kai, Shayna Baszler, Katana Chance, and Kayden Carter.
Dakota Kai’s Unexpected Exit
- As a former Women’s Tag Team Champion, Kai maintained strong fan support.
- Injuries frequently sidelined her, affecting her long-term standing in WWE.
Shayna Baszler’s Unfulfilled Main Roster Run
- After dominating NXT, Baszler struggled to find her place in singles competition.
- Her technical, MMA-based style might flourish in AEW or NJPW, which emphasize hard-hitting action.
Women’s Tag Division in Question
- WWE’s decision to release Chance & Carter, known for their dynamic teamwork, raises concerns about the future of women’s tag wrestling.
- Will newer teams emerge, or is WWE shifting focus toward singles competitors?
These roster changes suggest WWE may be revamping its women’s division, prioritizing different styles and fresh talent.
Shifts in NXT’s Talent Pool
Alongside main roster releases, WWE also cut Cora Jade and Gigi Dolin, two promising NXT stars.
Cora Jade’s Abrupt Departure
- With a rebellious persona, Jade showed potential as an emerging star.
- WWE may have acted too soon, limiting her chances for deeper character development.
Gigi Dolin’s Stalled Momentum
- Formerly aligned with Toxic Attraction, Dolin maintained a dedicated fan base.
- Since Mandy Rose’s exit, her creative direction remained unclear, possibly leading to her release.
Is WWE Moving Toward Experienced Talent Over Homegrown Stars?
- The company could be shifting toward signing established independent wrestlers rather than heavily investing in homegrown talent.
- Future acquisitions will reveal WWE’s evolving approach to NXT’s developmental system.
These releases indicate a possible shift, but whether it benefits WWE long-term remains uncertain.
Why WWE Executed These Cuts
While WWE has yet to publicly explain these departures, several factors likely influenced the decisions.
Post-WrestleMania Adjustments
- The company often reshapes its roster after major events, making room for new strategies.
Corporate Influence from TKO Group Holdings
- WWE’s merger with UFC under TKO Group Holdings may have introduced financial restructuring measures.
Will More Talent Depart Soon?
- If these cuts mark just the beginning, additional releases could follow.
WWE’s business decisions remain fluid, but the impact on the company’s creative direction is undeniable.
Where These Released Stars Could End Up
For many superstars, leaving WWE opens doors to new opportunities.
✅ Braun Strowman—AEW or Impact Wrestling would be natural fits based on his in-ring style.
✅ Dakota Kai & Shayna Baszler – International promotions such as NJPW or Stardom might offer fresh prospects.
✅ Cora Jade & Gigi Dolin – AEW’s growing women’s division could serve as a platform for their skills.
Fans will watch closely to see where these wrestlers continue their careers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why was Braun Strowman released again?
His second stint lacked strong storylines, and WWE opted to restructure its roster.
Is Braun Strowman moving to AEW or Impact Wrestling?
No confirmation yet, but AEW or Impact Wrestling could utilize his skills effectively.
Why was Dakota Kai let go despite fan support?
Injuries affected her WWE trajectory, and the company may be prioritizing newer talent.
What does Shayna Baszler’s exit mean for WWE’s women’s division?
WWE seems focused on introducing fresh competitors, potentially altering the division’s structure.
Are more WWE releases expected soon?
Possibly—WWE historically adjusts its roster post-WrestleMania, meaning further exits are possible.
Where will these released wrestlers go next?
Several may pursue AEW, Impact Wrestling, NJPW, or independent promotions.
Conclusion
WWE’s latest roster shake-up has left fans with more questions than answers. As Braun Strowman, Dakota Kai, Shayna Baszler, and others step into free agency, wrestling promotions worldwide may compete to sign them.
The company’s financial shifts, creative changes, and evolving priorities continue to shape the industry. Whether this strategy benefits WWE remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—these moves have dramatically altered the wrestling landscape.
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