On Friday it was reported that WWE had released several names including Jinder Mahal, Xia Li, Veer, Sanga and Xyon Quinn. Fightful Select reports that internally budget cuts were cited as the reason for the releases. However, it’s unclear if that was indicated to talent.
WWE higher ups noted that talent not being on TV due to creative not having anything for them, upward trajectory based on progression, and how long they had been with the company were all factors regarding the releases.
No memos were sent out to talent or staff announcing the releases. Several wrestlers at SmackDown reportedly found out about the releases as the news became public knowledge. Originally Xia Li was being advertised for the battle royal to crown a new WWE Women’s World Champion on Raw this week, but it’s being said that the graphics had team had not been informed of the release.
It’s also being reported that Jinder Mahal was released despite him posting a tweet indicating that he had quit. This wasn’t a situation where backstage heat contributed to the releases as the released talents were well liked.
