WWE Releases Dakota Kai Amid Budget Cuts, AEW Interest Reported

Dakota Kai's recent release from WWE was reportedly driven not just by budget cuts but because WWE did not view her as a long-term top-tier star, especially in a women's division crowded with major talents like Rhea Ripley and Charlotte Flair. WWE officials saw her primarily as a supporting talent to elevate rising stars such as Roxanne Perez and Giulia, and questioned whether her star power justified her contract. Despite this, former WWE star Sonya Deville expressed surprise at the decision, praising Kai's resilience and in-ring improvements after multiple injuries, and noted that other wrestling promotions, including AEW and Impact Wrestling (TNA), have shown strong interest in signing her. Kai’s potential move to AEW is complicated by prior negotiations back in 2022 when she almost left WWE for AEW or Stardom but re-signed after leadership changes at WWE. With her name circulating quickly among other wrestling companies, there is widespread speculation that she could become a top competitor outside WWE. Her next steps remain uncertain as she navigates a crowded free-agent market under a non-compete clause.