WWE developmental talent Summer Sorrell has broken her silence following her recent release from WWE, affirming her commitment to a future in professional wrestling outside the promotion. Despite an injury-plagued tenure, the former Cal State Fullerton track and field athlete expressed determination to continue growing in the sport she clearly loves.
Summer Sorrell’s WWE Release Confirmed
Summer Sorrell, real name Karyn Best, was confirmed to be part of the latest round of WWE releases that affected several talents across NXT, WWE EVOLVE, and WWE LFG. Although her name was less known compared to other releases, her departure marks the end of a developmental chapter that began when she was introduced to the WWE Performance Center class in late 2024. This class included other promising names like Zaria, Lance Anoa’i, and Elijah Holyfield, highlighting WWE’s developmental investment in fresh talent[1][3].
A Passion Interrupted by Injury
In her first public statement post-release, Sorrell emphasized her deep love and passion for professional wrestling. She described the journey as a mixture of long, stressful filming days and challenging in-ring experiences, balanced with hours of rehabilitation. However, her statement revealed a significant obstacle: an ongoing injury that persisted through much of her time at the Performance Center, preventing her from showing her full potential inside the ring.
Sorrell said, “The reality is that I struggled with the same ongoing injury during a majority of my time at the performance center. This held me back from ever being able to show my true potential in the ring.” Despite this setback, there’s evident optimism in her words as she hinted at a hoped-for return to full health. “Knowing that I only got the opportunity to show you a small fraction of what I am capable of is what is hurting me the most. But if that was only a fraction, imagine what happens when I’m finally at a hundred percent… the story doesn’t end here — it finally gets interesting.”[1][3]
From Track to Wrestling: A Unique Athletic Background
Before her wrestling career, Sorrell was a distinguished track and field athlete at Cal State Fullerton. Her athleticism was clearly a foundation for her performance and training in professional wrestling, but it was her heart for the business that she underscored repeatedly. Transitioning from collegiate athletics to the rigors of WWE’s developmental system is a significant leap, and despite the difficulties faced, Sorrell’s passion never waned[1].
What’s Next for Summer Sorrell?
The sentiment in Sorrell’s statement leaves no doubt that her release from WWE is not the end of her wrestling career. Sources close to WWE and the wrestling community reveal her intention to continue pursuing professional wrestling opportunities outside WWE. According to a WWE insider, “Summer’s drive and talent are respected backstage, and while her run with WWE didn’t pan out due to injury and timing, she’s definitely someone with potential to make waves on the independent scene or possibly with other major promotions down the line.”[3]
Her debut match took place in April 2025 against Wendy Choo in an episode of Evolve, part of her initial in-ring exposure and development. She was also featured in the first season of WWE’s female-focused project LFG, showcasing the company’s efforts to build new stars in women’s wrestling[1].
Broader Context: WWE’s Developmental Releases in 2025
Sorrell’s exit is part of a roster reshuffle that affected several developmental talents, including names like Jin Tala and others associated with WWE’s developmental branches. Some departures were more high-profile, but many young prospects who had yet to fully break through have similarly parted ways with the company. Commentators note that while such releases can be discouraging, many released talents, including Sorrell, view this as a new beginning rather than a career end[2][4].
Backstage Perspectives and Industry Outlook
An industry observer explained, “WWE’s developmental system is fiercely competitive, and unfortunately injuries can derail even the most promising careers. However, the independent circuit and other major promotions like AEW, Impact Wrestling, and Ring of Honor have shown openness to pickup former WWE talent with potential. Summer is young and resilient—expect to see her continue to evolve and make a name for herself.”[3]
Sorrell’s resolve also resonates with many fans who follow developmental stars, as they often navigate long, arduous paths before reaching wider recognition.
Summer Sorrell’s release from WWE is a setback but far from the final chapter in her wrestling story. With a foundation in athletics, a passion for the craft, and a clear-eyed vision of her future, Sorrell represents a familiar archetype of wrestlers who continue their careers beyond WWE’s walls. Fans and industry insiders alike will be watching closely as she looks to reclaim her momentum and fulfill the promising potential that injury once stalled.