Four WWE stars who might be released next as part of recent 'age-related' cuts

Multiple superstars were released after WrestleMania 42.

The aftermath of WrestleMania 42 saw WWE release multiple names from the main roster, as well as from the developmental brands.

Multiple top names, including Aleister Black, Zelina Vega, the entire Wyatt Sicks faction, Alba Fyre, Apollo Crews, Santos Escobar, Zoey Stark, Motor City Machine Guns, and even massive fan-favorite Kairi Sane, were all part of the roster cuts.

According to Dave Metlzer of the Wrestling Observer, some of the cuts were “age-related” as the company aims to have a younger roster. With that in mind, let us take a look at four underutilized stars who could be at risk of release next.

4. Matt Cardona

Similar to Aleister Black, Matt Cardona re-signed with the promotion to begin his second run with the company. However, much like Black, Cardona has been poorly utilized.

While Black’s exit was largely attributed to a lack of creative plans, Cardona has barely been featured on television and has yet to be involved in a proper feud on the blue brand. Although it seems unlikely, nothing in the TKO era is no-holds-barred.

Also Read: All WWE superstars released after WrestleMania 42 so far

3. Candice LeRae

Candice LeRae’s current WWE run has stalled to the point where a release might benefit both sides. Her television involvement has been minimal. LeRae has not had a match on SmackDown since February and has only appeared in two matches in 2026, with the first being the women’s Royal Rumble.

Currently, she is involved in a storyline with Johnny Gargano, and despite delivering a good segment, WWE continues to criminally underutilize her, especially since the Blue brand is in dire need of good storylines to boost the women’s division.

2. Johnny Gargano

Since Tomasso Ciampa’s departure, rumors and speculations regarding Johnny Gargano’s exit were rife. While reports confirmed that he is under contract with the WWE and isn’t going to join Ciampa in AEW, the promotion has not given him any proper reason to stay.

Similar to Bayley, despite delivering on what has been asked, Gargano remains sporadic. The lack of focus on plans for him might lead to his being among the recent layoffs.

1. Shinsuke Nakamura

Shinsuke Nakamura is arguably one of the biggest Japanese superstars and a massive fan-favorite. However, the release of Kairi Sane has left many fans questioning if being a fan-favorite helps a star in retaining their place in the company.

Adding to that, Sane has been involved in a major ongoing storyline, while Nakamura has largely been absent from WWE programming, only appearing sporadically in backstage segments. At 46 years old and having openly discussed retirement, a case could reasonably be made for his release.

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