Shayna Baszler, the former NXT Women’s Champion, has spoken candidly about her departure from WWE, revealing that she had recently signed a significant contract extension before being unexpectedly released. This move has raised questions about the nature of contract security within the wrestling industry.
Background on Shayna Baszler’s WWE Career
Baszler’s tenure in WWE was marked by several highlights, including her dominant performance in the first-ever Mae Young Classic tournament, where she reached the finals but lost to Kairi Sane. Her most notable achievement was becoming a multiple-time WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion, teaming with high-profile names like Nia Jax and Ronda Rousey. Despite her success on NXT, Baszler struggled to maintain the same level of prominence on the main roster, often finding herself in the middle of the card.
The Contract Extension and Release
In a recent interview with The Ariel Helwani Show, Baszler disclosed that she had signed a three-year contract extension not long before her release. This revelation has sparked discussion about the reliability of contracts in professional wrestling, where even long-term agreements can be terminated unexpectedly. Baszler expressed a sense of acceptance, stating that she wasn’t entirely surprised by her release, given the challenges she faced in getting creative ideas implemented.
“It was not like I was caught off guard,” Baszler reflected, echoing the sentiments she shared in her interview. “We were trying to pitch a lot of our own stories and ideas, but nothing seemed to click with the creative team.” This lack of alignment led to a bit of a stalemate, which ultimately contributed to her exit.
Recent Activities and Future Plans
After her release, Baszler had to wait out a 90-day non-compete clause, which recently expired. This period allowed her to reassess her career path and explore new opportunities. In a surprising turn of events, reports emerged in July 2025 that Baszler had returned to WWE, albeit in a behind-the-scenes role. She was spotted backstage at NXT, where she produced a match between Kelani Jordan and Lainey Reid. According to sources close to the situation, Baszler’s return as a producer is part of a probationary period to assess her fit in this new capacity.
“Shayna’s return as a producer is a bit of a test run,” a WWE insider revealed. “She’s a highly respected figure from her wrestling days, and this could be a way for her to remain involved in the company while also exploring what works best for both parties.”
Impact and Future Prospects
Baszler’s experience highlights the unpredictable nature of the wrestling industry, where even the most secure-seeming contracts can be terminated. Her situation underscores the importance of adaptability and the need for wrestlers to be prepared for unexpected changes in their careers. As Baszler navigates her new role, fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see how she will continue to contribute to WWE, whether behind the scenes or, potentially, back in the ring.
Conclusion
Shayna Baszler’s story serves as a reminder that success in professional wrestling is not solely about in-ring prowess but also about navigating the complex world of contracts and creative direction. As she embarks on this new chapter, Baszler’s journey will undoubtedly be closely watched by fans and industry observers, offering insights into both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for talents in the wrestling world.