Drako Knox, a promising talent within WWE’s developmental system, has officially been released from his contract with the company, the young athlete confirmed on social media on October 10, 2025. His departure marks the end of a two-year stint during which Knox sought to break through the competitive ranks of WWE’s NXT brand before advancing to the main roster[1][2][5].
A Developmental Prospect Who Never Made the NXT TV Debut
Knox signed with WWE in 2023 amid the company’s push to strengthen its developmental pipeline, which continues through the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida. Wrestling primarily under the ring name Drake Starks, Knox competed in WWE’s EVOLVE events—a brand known for highlighting up-and-coming wrestlers—and participated regularly in NXT live shows across the Florida circuit. Despite consistent performances and a background showcasing his athleticism and intensity, Knox never appeared on televised NXT programming, which many wrestlers see as a vital step toward WWE main roster status[1][2][6].
His most recent in-ring appearance was a loss against Jasper Troy at an NXT live event on October 4, 2025. Following that, the company made the decision to release him effective immediately[1].
Knox’s Own Words: Gratitude and Next Steps
Upon announcing his release, Knox expressed appreciation for his time at the WWE Performance Center and thanked everyone he encountered during his tenure.
“Effective immediately, I have been released from my contract with WWE. I am thankful for every person and every day I spent in that PC. I give everything I have every single day for this business!” Knox shared on X (formerly Twitter), also revealing that he would be available for bookings in 30 days, consistent with WWE’s standard non-compete clause for released talent[1][2].
He publicly provided an email address for potential bookings, signaling his readiness to pursue opportunities on the independent circuit or with other wrestling promotions.
Context of Recent WWE Releases
Knox’s release is part of a broader wave of departures affecting WWE’s developmental talent recently. In the same week, other NXT performers such as Lance Anoa’i announced their exits, indicating a possible shift or restructuring within WWE’s developmental approach[3].
Sources close to WWE suggest that the company continues to evaluate its roster aggressively, prioritizing top-tier talent who can contribute immediately to television and live event storylines. One backstage insider noted:
“WWE is always looking to sharpen its roster, especially in the developmental space. While Drako had the talent and work ethic, creative direction and timing play big roles in who gets pushed to TV. Sometimes good wrestlers just don’t get the opportunity they deserve.” — WWE insider, speaking on condition of anonymity
What Does This Mean for Drako Knox’s Career?
At just 25 years old, Knox still has substantial potential to make waves outside WWE. His release does not negate his strong foundation in the indie wrestling scene, where he built a reputation for his athleticism and match intensity before WWE signed him.
Industry experts predict that Knox could be an attractive addition to other major wrestling companies, such as AEW, Impact Wrestling, or New Japan Pro Wrestling, all of which often embrace former WWE developmental talents looking to establish or recalibrate their careers.
WWE’s Developmental Contract Structure and Non-Compete Clause
WWE’s developmental contracts typically restrict released talent from working in other major wrestling promotions for 30 days post-release. Knox’s statement aligns with this, reassuring promoters and fans alike that he will be able to accept bookings once this period passes[1][2].
This window often serves as a brief transitional phase for wrestlers to assess their next steps, seek new representation, or negotiate deals with other organizations.
Final Thoughts
Drako Knox’s departure from WWE underlines the challenging and competitive nature of professional wrestling’s developmental systems. While his run with WWE ended without a television breakthrough, Knox’s commitment and performances have laid a solid groundwork for his future endeavors. Wrestling fans and industry insiders will likely keep an eye on where Knox lands next and how he rebuilds momentum in the wrestling world beyond WWE.