Top seven WWE releases that were huge mistakes by Triple H

(Courtesy : WWE)
Triple H has released some top talents from WWE.
WWE came under the creative leadership of Chief Content Officer Triple H for years, with Nick Khan overseeing as CEO. Since then, the company has thrived in terms of business metrics and records. At the same time, the Game’s regime also saw a lot of talent being cut from the roster.
From former world champions to promising rising talents, there have been a lot of WWE releases in the Triple H era. Here are the top seven names from the list of superstars that were huge blunders:
7. Dakota Kai

Despite multiple injuries constantly derailing her momentum, Dakota Kai came back stronger each time. This garnered her immense popularity, and she was a huge favorite to win the inaugural WWE Women’s Intercontinental title. However, that did not happen, and Kai was released this year.
6. Carmella
Carmella took a two-year extended absence from WWE. This was due to her pregnancy and, later, a foot injury that developed from the complications. Despite Mella recovering and being ready to come back, Triple H’s regime released her in 2025, leaving a bad taste in her mouth.
5. Shayna Baszler
Shayna Baszler had the raw power and dominant streak inside the ring and could have been positioned as one of the most dangerous WWE female talents.
Yet, her lackluster booking and creative directions prevented her from getting over with the fans. For years, she was stuck in the mid-card, and in 2025, Triple H decided to part ways with The Queen of Spades.
4. R-Truth
Following his match with John Cena at Saturday Night’s Main Event, R-Truth was shockingly released by Triple H and company. This caused a major uproar among fans who showcased support for his return. The Game rectified this one and only mistake and brought back Truth a week later, which got a huge ovation.
3. Cora Jade
Cora Jade was one of the most promising talents who made waves in NXT after returning from injury in 2024. She was envisioned to be a future NXT Women’s Champion.
Yet, Triple H and his regime chose to release her, which was surprising. However, Jade has been thriving in the outside world since her release, while NXT lost a remarkable star in the making.
2. Braun Strowman
Braun Strowman was brought back by Triple H to WWE in 2022. The Monster Among Men had a strong start for his second tenure but was heavily involved in mid-card programs, unlike his first run when he was a former world champion. With a huge money deal and no major use, Triple H decided to cut him off instead of utilizing his star power.
1. Nic Nemeth
Nic Nemeth, formerly known as Dolph Ziggler, was among the most underrated WWE superstars ever. He had the look, popularity, and an illustrious resume full of championships and accolades.
However, he was never given the ball to represent WWE as a main event talent. Moreover, after spending close to two decades with WWE, he was released during the Triple H era in 2023.
Why were some WWE releases considered mistakes by Triple H?
Many of the releases under Triple H’s leadership were seen as mistakes because the superstars had untapped potential, strong fan followings, or were gaining momentum before being let go. Fans and analysts believe that with better creative direction, these talents could have become major assets for WWE.
Which released WWE superstars made a big impact elsewhere?
Several released stars went on to shine in other promotions like AEW, TNA, or the independent circuit. Wrestlers such as Toni Storm, Keith Lee, Swerve Strickland, and Deonna Purrazzo are examples of talents who thrived outside WWE, making their releases look short-sighted in hindsight.
Has Triple H or WWE ever addressed these release decisions?
While WWE rarely comments in detail on individual releases, Triple H has emphasized that budget cuts, creative shifts, and long-term planning often drive such decisions. However, in some cases, superstars have been rehired, suggesting that WWE may have reconsidered their earlier choices.
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