Carmella, former WWE superstar and champion, is officially out of the ring as her contract with WWE has recently expired. According to reports from PWN and affirmed by Fightful Select, the news has left fans questioning whether they will ever see her return to WWE programming.
Carmella, who last performed for WWE in March 2023, has faced significant personal and health challenges over the past few years. After giving birth to her first child with husband Corey Graves, she stepped away from the spotlight. Although fans were hopeful for her return, it was often unclear if she would be able to compete again.
The former SmackDown Women's Champion has had her fair share of struggles, including heartbreaking experiences with miscarriage, which left her grappling with depression after facing an ectopic pregnancy. Speaking candidly on the Nikki & Brie Show back in May 2024, Carmella mentioned, "I miss the fans, but I’m dealing with drop foot," referring to the neurological condition affecting her foot's movement and strength, something potentially impacting her wrestling career.
Throughout her time with WWE, which began with her signing on as a developmental talent back in 2013 before moving to the main roster three years later, Carmella made history. She won the inaugural Women’s Money in the Bank ladder match, later cashing it in to defeat Charlotte Flair for the SmackDown Women's Championship. Her transition from serious competitor to fan-favorite comedy act alongside R-Truth also contributed to her recognizable presence on WWE programming.
Carmella’s impressive accolades also include holding the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship with Queen Zelina and winning the WWE 24/7 Championship four times. Her success culminated with her pairing with R-Truth on the Mixed Match Challenge, where they clinched their victory as fan favorites.
Despite all these achievements, her health and personal circumstances took precedence, leading to her absence from the ring. Carmella's departure from WWE highlights the rigors and challenges professional wrestlers face, both personally and physically.
The announcement of Carmella's contract expiration leaves many wondering what lies next for the talented athlete. UPW and other promotions might be interested, or she may pursue endeavors outside of wrestling, focusing on family and health first. For now, her fans hold their breath, hoping for her return, even as uncertainty looms large.
With all this taken together, Carmella's legacy within WWE remains significant. She is remembered not just for her championships and high-profile matches but also for her poignant personal story. Whether or not she steps back inside the squared circle, she has undoubtedly made her mark on the industry.
Now, as the wrestling world moves forward, it will be interesting to see how Carmella's story evolves and whether she finds her way back to the wrestling ring.