WWE has made significant roster adjustments in its developmental system, releasing several promising talents from its NXT and WWE ID programs. Among those departing are Stevie Turner, Lance Anoaʻi, Darko Knox, Jamar Hampton, and Zara Zhaker. These roster cuts, announced by the wrestlers themselves via social media, reflect routine pruning as WWE continues to shape its future talent pipeline.
Notable Names Among the Releases
Lance Anoaʻi: The Legacy Wrestler’s Setback
Lance Anoaʻi, part of the renowned Anoaʻi wrestling dynasty as the son of Samu and grandson of Afa, confirmed his WWE release on X (Twitter). He candidly acknowledged his tough run with WWE, stating, “I didn’t have the best of luck since I arrived! I will not let this stop me from achieving to be great! I’ve worked hard on the indies for 15 years! Now let’s get back to work!” He is subject to the standard 30-day non-compete clause before he can appear on other wrestling platforms[6].
Anoaʻi signed with WWE in mid-2024 but was sidelined due to injury before debuting on NXT TV. Prior to WWE, Lance held the MLW World Tag Team Championship and was well-regarded on the independent circuit. According to sources close to WWE, his injury and prolonged absence played a significant role in the company’s decision not to extend his contract during this round of releases.
Stevie Turner: From NXT UK to WWE Evolve GM
Stevie Turner, recognized for her phenom status in the United Kingdom wrestling scene under the name Bobbi Tyler before joining WWE, was another key name cut. Turner joined WWE in 2021 and competed on NXT UK before transitioning to NXT. In 2025, she also served as the on-screen General Manager for the revived WWE Evolve brand[6].
Turner announced her departure on social media, reflecting on her tenure which included six independent titles before WWE. Backstage, WWE officials reportedly hinted that the evolving Evolve brand and NXT creative plans factored into the release decisions, making her departure a business-minded move rather than a reflection on her in-ring abilities.
Other Developmental Departures
- Darko Knox was released before he could appear on any televised NXT programming. Having joined WWE in 2023, Knox wrestled under the name Drake Starks on WWE EVOLVE and various independent promotions. He’s set to become available for bookings 30 days after his release and has reaffirmed his commitment to continue pursuing wrestling opportunities outside WWE[7].
- Jamar Hampton and Zara Zhaker also had their WWE contracts terminated, closing chapters on their development days within the company[6][8].
Context and Industry Implications
2025 has seen a steady wave of WWE talent releases, including notable names across main roster and developmental divisions. These roster moves are generally considered part of WWE’s strategic decisions to refresh its pool of talent and adjust to shifting business needs. According to a WWE insider familiar with developmental operations, “WWE continuously assesses who fits its creative and business direction. Though it is tough for those released, the company remains focused on delivering fresh storylines and opportunities for emerging talent.”
This latest round is viewed by many analysts as a somewhat standard but firm effort by WWE to tighten its developmental ranks ahead of an expected push in 2026 for new shows and content expansion.
What’s Next for the Released Talent?
Given their experience and potential, many released stars are anticipated to explore the independent wrestling scene or other promotions like AEW, Impact Wrestling, or international companies.
- Lance Anoaʻi’s 15-year indie career and family name suggest he could find swift opportunities.
- Stevie Turner, with her leadership role in Evolve and in-ring skills, might be sought after for both wrestling and management roles elsewhere.
- Darko Knox’s youth and determination could make him a breakout star in the indies, as fans and promoters rally behind his renewed journey.
Fan and Industry Reactions
Fans have taken to social media expressing mixed emotions about these departures. Some lament the loss of promising talents like Anoaʻi and Turner, citing their potential to impact WWE’s future. Others recognize the harsh nature of wrestling business roster cuts and eagerly anticipate the released wrestlers’ post-WWE careers.
Wrestling pundits point to the depth of talent in NXT and ID programs, acknowledging WWE’s challenge in providing enough opportunities. One veteran WWE scout commented anonymously, “Not every talented wrestler can find their spot on NXT TV or the main roster, but finishing with WWE doesn’t close the door—it’s often just the start of a new chapter elsewhere.”
This latest set of releases underscores the ever-changing landscape within WWE’s developmental system as the company continually recalibrates its roster to balance creativity, budgeting, and fan engagement. The future remains bright for these wrestlers, who have already left their mark and will likely continue shaping the wrestling world in the years ahead.