5 Reasons why WWE launched a number of stars after WrestleMania 42

Stunningly, WWE released multiple superstars from its main roster, NXT, and Evolve. So far, the list includes 22 superstars, including Aleister Black, The Wyatt Sicks, Zelina Vega, Kairi Sane, and more.

The WWE Universe is disappointed with this move, particularly because the TKO-led promotion released those stars who were primarily engaged in storylines on RAW and SmackDown.

Talking about Kairi Sane, she was the core part of the Asuka vs. IYO SKY storyline on Monday Night RAW. However, her release will surely impact the women’s roster on the red brand.

Also, the release of the entire Wyatt Sicks faction, including Uncle Howdy, was another major surprise. The horror faction was getting major attention from fans. The company failed to capitalize on its potential, especially with Howdy as a single star.

In this article, we will look at five reasons why the Triple H-led promotion released several stars after WrestleMania 42.

#5. Mass releases happen every year

Over the past few years, mass releases have happened almost every year. Last year, the list included The Author of Pains, Cedric Alexander, Sonya Deville, Braun Strowman, and more.

With these mass releases happening every year, this appears to be a regular thing in the Stamford-based promotion. This could be why WWE released multiple stars following this year’s WrestleMania 42.

If this continues, next year will see the departure of more stars if needed by the Triple H creative regime. This year, the list includes Kairi Sane, Aleister Black, Zelina, Uncle Howdy, Nikki Cross, Santos Escobar, Motor City Machine Guns, Dexter Lumis, and Apollo Crews.

Furthermore, the list is followed by Erick Rowan, Joe Gacy, Andre Chase, Zoey Stark, Alba Fyre, Tyra Mae Steele, Sirena Linton, Tyson, Tyriek Igwe, Chris Island, Malik Blade, Trill London, and Luca Crusifino.

#4. Given up on them

Another reason for these major releases could be a strategic move by the World Wrestling Entertainment, as WWE might have given up on these all-stars. This contributed to the major release by the sports entertainment juggernaut.

Over the past few months, Aleister Black has not been involved in any major storyline. He was only teased as the potential mystery caller for Randy Orton, but later Pat McAfee was released in that role.

As for The Wyatt Sicks, they were only involved in a feud with the MFTs on SmackDown. As soon as their feud with the Solo Sikoa faction concluded, they lacked creative direction on the Friday Night Show.

So, this lack of creative direction is a major sign that WWE has given up on them and has eventually fired them from World Wrestling Entertainment.

#3. WWE NXT stars were ready to replace them

The NXT roster is currently stacked with major names who have the potential to become significant on the main roster. One recent example is Oba Femi. The Ruler vacated his NXT Championship and moved to the main roster.

There, he engaged in a feud with Brock Lesnar and defeated The Beast Incarnate at The Showcase of Immortals. Following this, Oba declared his arrival on WWE RAW, solidifying his position as a major star.

Also, Sol Ruca was part of the RAW after the ‘Mania show. Recently, the company announced Ricky Saints‘ arrival on SmackDown. Moreover, Ethan Page joined the red brand, too.

All this shows that NXT stars were ready to replace these talents on the main roster. As a result, WWE decided to proceed with these massive releases after WrestleMania 42.

#2. Revamping the roster

Revamping the roster could be another crucial reason behind these massive releases. Releasing all these stars from the main roster opens doors for fresh talent to join the landscape of RAW and SmackDown.

It also creates a slot for NXT stars to arrive on the main roster, especially when the red and blue brand rosters are already too stacked. Considering this, revamping the roster could be a rationale behind this incident.

#1. Couldn’t maintain the salary cap

Usually, a gigantic release happens due to budget cuts. This means that WWE failed to maintain the salary cap. As a result, they decided to fire multiple stars they feel aren’t necessary for the storyline and don’t contribute much to the growth of WWE & TKO.

This might have been done to save costs and keep the profit margin high. So, failure to maintain the salary cap could be another probable explanation behind the mass releases that happened in 2026 after ‘Mania 42.

We at Sportskeeda wish all the released stars luck in their future endeavors and hope they land the best after this event. Rest, it will remain to be seen how things will unfold in the coming weeks. There is a chance that more releases might be announced, as there is no confirmation of whether WWE is done releasing stars.