As per WWE’s response to the global financial crisis created by the COVID-19 pandemic, several staff cuts are being made to reduce costs. The first round of talent releases have officially been announced via WWE’s social media, confirming that a total of 7 superstars have been let go from their contracts.
The following names make up the list of employees released from their active contracts:
Kurt Angle
Drake Maverick
Heath Slater
Curt Hawkins
Karl Anderson
Luke Gallows
Eric Young
EC3
Lio Rush
Aiden English
Sarah Logan
Mike Kanellis
Maria Kanellis
Erick Rowan
Primo
Epico
No Way Jose
Zack Ryder
Rusev
Fit Finlay
Lance Storm
Shane Helms
Mike Rotunda (IRS)
Billy Kidman
Pat Buck
Sarah Stock
Shawn Daivari
Scott Armstrong
Mike Chioda
Evidently WWE are cutting away some deadwood in terms of those that are rarely featured on television, and have very little going for them creatively. There’s currently no word on whether these superstars are expected to complete their 90 day no-compete clause. Dawson and Wilder of The Revival were excused from this typical caveat to their release, allowing them to potentially debut on AEW, or any other independent promotions currently operational.
We hope all former WWE superstars find success in the near future, once the pandemic passes. We will keep you as updated as we can as further announcements are made regarding staff cuts.
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