WWE has made headlines yet again with the recent release of several superstars, igniting conversations among fans and industry insiders alike. On February 8, 2025, Cedric Alexander announced via social media his departure from WWE after nearly nine years with the organization, setting off speculation of additional cuts. Mere hours later, Fightful reported the release of five other notable talents: Blair Davenport, Sonya Deville, and the tag team Authors of Pain, which consists of Akam and Rezar, alongside their esteemed manager, Paul Ellering.
This wave of releases marks yet another chapter in WWE's ever-shifting roster dynamics. Within the recent cuts, Sonya Deville’s exit is particularly shocking. After surviving a harrowing home invasion incident back in August 2020, Deville, whose real name is Daria Berenato, had worked her way back to the ring and even secured the Women’s Tag Team Championship with Chelsea Green. She had high hopes this year of clinching her first singles title, only for her WWE tenure to end abruptly.
Blair Davenport’s release, though not entirely surprising, continues to highlight the unfortunate trend of underutilized talent. Since being drafted from NXT to the main roster last year, Davenport competed sparingly – wrestling just five televised matches, only winning one. Her last outing was on November 22 against Chelsea Green and Bianca Belair, battling for the Women’s United States Title. Her potential seemed unrealized, leaving fans questioning what could have been had WWE capitalized on her experience stemming from her successful run on the independent circuit.
The Authors of Pain’s release adds another layer of sentimentality. Managed by Paul Ellering, AOP made significant impacts within WWE's tag team scene. Ellering, who was inducted as part of the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2011 and had two stints with AOP, helped shape them as formidable competitors. His managerial prowess was once pivotal during their initial rise, and his sudden absence could be felt within the tag division. "Paul Ellering was instrumental with several tag teams, including AOP, and his departure marks loss to the tag division," stated PWInsider.
These changes don't just signal shifts for the wrestlers involved but also stir conversations about WWE's overall direction. The wrestling world has reacted fervently, with fans expressing their concerns and feelings about the sudden wave of cuts. "What do you think of these releases? Should these men and women be seen next in All Elite Wrestling, or would other companies be more suited for them?" asked various sources, prompting broad discussions about opportunities outside WWE.
Cedric Alexander's heartfelt post encapsulates the emotional weight of such career moves. "I am officially released from WWE after almost nine years. Thank you to all the fans. Love you all!" he shared, reflecting on his time and leaving the future wide open for possibilities.
WWE's creative direction appears to be at the heart of these decisions, as the reports indicate major re-evaluations and strategies. "There have not been creative plans for Blair Davenport since her call-up," noted Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select, raising concerns about how talent are being booked and utilized. For many rising stars, the main roster can become stifling, especially if they're not integrated properly within storylines.
These departures are not isolated. A pattern of ill-fated call-ups, especially from the 2024 WWE Draft, is becoming evident, with numerous talents facing similar fates. Names like Baron Corbin and Indi Hartwell have joined the ranks of those who found little success after being moved up to main roster status. The industry is now rife with discussions concerning whether WWE will adjust its future approach toward new talent integrating onto primary brands.
While the immediate focus remains on the released stars, the broader conversation encompasses the future of WWE's roster and potential new arrivals from different promotions. The wrestling world is eager to see where these talented individuals venture next; many could find new beginnings elsewhere, with companies like All Elite Wrestling (AEW) eyeing the possibility of new signings.
Stay tuned as the wrestling community continues to react to these changes, and fans speculate on where their favorite Superstars will land next. The possibilities are endless, and as always, the road remains unpredictable within the ring.