WWE Releases Braun Strowman, Cora Jade, and Other Top Stars in May 2025

In a stunning move, WWE has officially released several top stars from its roster in May 2025, including Braun Strowman, Cora Jade, Gigi Dolin, Katana Chance, Shayna Baszler, Oro Mensah, Javier Bernal, and Kayden Carter. Known for his larger-than-life presence, Braun Strowman’s departure has left fans shocked and questioning the direction WWE is heading. Let’s break down the impact of these releases and explore what it means for both WWE and the released stars.

WWE Releases Braun Strowman, a Former Universal Champion

Braun Strowman’s journey with WWE began in 2015 when he joined the company as part of the Wyatt Family. However, it didn’t take long for Strowman to break away and establish himself as a dominant singles competitor. Over the years, he became one of the most recognizable faces in WWE. Strowman’s sheer size, strength, and relentless style made him a fan favorite.

Strowman quickly became known as the “Monster Among Men.” His larger-than-life persona captured the attention of WWE fans across the globe. He had memorable feuds with some of WWE’s top stars, including Roman Reigns, Brock Lesnar, and The Undertaker. His most notable achievement came when he won the WWE Universal Championship at Payback 2020.

WWE Releases Cora Jade, Gigi Dolin, Katana Chance, and Shayna Baszler

Another major shock in WWE’s May 2025 releases is the departure of Cora Jade, Gigi Dolin, Katana Chance, and Shayna Baszler. Cora Jade, known for her rebellious attitude and athleticism, had been a rising star in NXT. Gigi Dolin, a member of Toxic Attraction, and Katana Chance, a talented high-flyer, both brought their unique skills to the NXT women’s division. Shayna Baszler, once a dominant force in NXT, had struggled to replicate her success on the main roster.

These releases have left many fans questioning the future of WWE’s women’s division, especially with so many high-profile departures at once. WWE has long been known for cultivating strong female talent, but with these releases, the company seems to be making room for newer, younger stars to rise.

WWE Releases Oro Mensah and Javier Bernal

Oro Mensah, an up-and-coming talent in NXT, was also part of WWE’s May 2025 releases. His sudden departure is surprising, as Mensah had been gaining momentum with a strong showing in recent months. His athleticism and potential had many believing he would soon make the jump to the main roster. However, it appears WWE has different plans for his future.

Javier Bernal, another NXT wrestler, was released as well. Bernal had been a consistent presence in NXT but never quite reached the level of stardom that many expected. His release might be a result of WWE’s current focus on younger, fresher talent in the developmental system.

WWE Releases Kayden Carter: Another Blow to NXT’s Women’s Division

One of the most unexpected releases was Kayden Carter. Alongside her tag team partner Katana Chance, Carter had been a staple of NXT’s women’s division. The duo had a strong connection with fans, and their chemistry in the ring was undeniable. With both Carter and Chance now gone, NXT’s tag team scene faces an uncertain future.

WWE Releases Shayna Baszler: What Went Wrong?

Shayna Baszler’s release has also raised eyebrows. Once a dominant force in NXT, Baszler had a mixed run on WWE’s main roster. She was expected to become a major champion, but her time in WWE seemed to stall. Baszler’s style, rooted in submission wrestling, didn’t always align with the company’s evolving product. Her departure could signal WWE’s shift in priorities regarding its female superstars.

WWE Releases May 2025: A New Era for the Company?

WWE’s decision to release such a high-profile group of wrestlers has raised questions about the company’s future. These releases could be part of a larger restructuring effort to refocus on developing new talent, particularly from NXT. The company has been transitioning to building younger stars who can carry WWE forward for the next decade.

The releases of Braun Strowman, Cora Jade, Gigi Dolin, Katana Chance, and others suggest that WWE is preparing for a new era. These stars were all key parts of WWE’s recent storylines, and their absence will undoubtedly shake up the company’s creative direction.

What’s Next for the Released Stars?

With these releases, the big question is: what’s next for the stars who were let go? Braun Strowman, Cora Jade, Shayna Baszler, and the others will likely land somewhere else in the wrestling world. Some might find success in AEW, Impact Wrestling, or other promotions that offer a platform for established names. Others, like Cora Jade and Gigi Dolin, may choose to build their careers outside of wrestling or transition to a different form of entertainment.

For WWE, these cuts might be a necessary step to continue growing its global brand. With the company’s eyes set on global expansion and a shifting entertainment landscape, WWE will continue to build a roster that aligns with its evolving vision. This includes focusing on younger talent who can sustain the company’s growth for years to come.

Conclusion

WWE’s May 2025 releases have left fans stunned. The departures of Braun Strowman, Cora Jade, Shayna Baszler, Gigi Dolin, Katana Chance, and others signal a shift in the company’s approach to building its roster. Whether this is part of a larger restructuring or a response to changing market dynamics, WWE is clearly positioning itself for a new era.

As for the released stars, their future in wrestling is far from over. Braun Strowman, Cora Jade, Shayna Baszler, and others will likely continue to have a significant impact in the wrestling world, whether through other promotions or in new career ventures.

Stay tuned for more updates on WWE’s roster changes and the next chapter for both the company and its stars. The world of professional wrestling is always evolving, and these recent releases mark an important turning point for WWE’s future.