15 Superstars RELEASED post-WrestleMania 41!

Braun Strowman, Shayna Baszler, Dakota Kai, Cora Jade, and more cut from Raw, SmackDown, & NXT.

WWE dropped a bombshell on May 2, 2025, releasing 15 superstars from its roster just weeks after WrestleMania 41, as reported by Fightful Select and PWInsider. 

The cuts span Raw, SmackDown, and NXT, including big names like Braun Strowman, Shayna Baszler, Dakota Kai, Cora Jade, Kayden Carter, Katana Chance, Gigi Dolin, Eddy Thorpe, Riley Osborne, Jakara Jackson, Oro Mensah, Javier Bernal, and Gallus members Wolfgang, Mark Coffey, and Joe Coffey. This move echoes WWE’s annual post-Mania roster trim, likely tied to budget cuts or TKO Group Holdings’ strategic shifts.

see also: Al Hilal and coach Jorge Jesus have mutually parted ways, the club announced today. Mohammad Al Shalhoub steps in as interim coach.

Braun Strowman, a former Universal Champion, was a surprising release. Last seen on SmackDown on April 18, 2025, losing to Jacob Fatu, he took it in stride, posting a chill photo on social media. Shayna Baszler, a former NXT Women’s Champion, was cut after a gauntlet match on April 11. She fired back on X: “No one can offer what I have. Reality.” Cora Jade, an NXT standout, confirmed her exit with gratitude, teasing future plans. Dakota Kai, recently vocal about missing the ring, was another shocker, leaving fans lamenting her untapped potential.

Main roster stars face 90-day non-compete clauses, while NXT talents have 30 days. Social media buzzed with reactions, from Gigi Dolin’s “free in 30 days” to Jakara Jackson’s bold defiance. Fans on X expressed disbelief, especially over Strowman, Kai, and Jade, while speculating about AEW pickups. The cuts fuel debate about WWE’s creative path and TKO’s financial motives. More releases may loom as roster reviews continue, leaving the wrestling world on edge.