In a move that left many fans scratching their heads, WWE released Dakota Kai in May 2025. Known for her fierce in-ring style and charismatic presence, Kai’s departure raised questions about the reasons behind it and what lies ahead for the New Zealand native. Let’s dive into the details surrounding her release and explore potential future paths for this talented wrestler.
The Unexpected Exit
Dakota Kai’s release came as a surprise to many, especially considering her recent involvement in high-profile matches and storylines. According to reports, several factors contributed to WWE’s decision:
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Age Consideration: At 37, Kai was viewed by some within WWE as nearing the upper age limit for female talent, which may have influenced the decision.
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Perceived Role: While respected, Kai was seen more as a supporting player rather than a leading star, limiting her long-term prospects in the company’s eyes.
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Financial Factors: There were concerns that her salary didn’t align with her role, especially if she was primarily used to elevate other talent.
Despite these factors, the release was still unexpected, given her popularity and contributions to the women’s division.
A Career of Highlights
Before her release, Dakota Kai had built an impressive resume
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NXT Success: She was a two-time NXT Women’s Tag Team Champion and the inaugural winner of the Women’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic.
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Main Roster Impact: Kai made her mark on the main roster as part of the Damage CTRL stable alongside Bayley and IYO SKY, capturing the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship twice.
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International Experience: Before WWE, she competed globally under the name Evie, showcasing her versatility and appeal across different wrestling promotions.
Her journey reflects a blend of technical skill, storytelling ability, and international flair.
What’s Next for Dakota Kai?
While her WWE chapter has closed, the future holds numerous possibilities:
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Potential AEW Move: Given her talent and fanbase, All Elite Wrestling could be a natural next step, offering fresh matchups and storylines.
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International Circuits: Kai’s previous success in Japan and other countries positions her well for a return to international wrestling scenes.
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Independent Scene: The indie circuit offers creative freedom, allowing Kai to reinvent herself and connect with fans on a personal level.
Her adaptability and experience make her a valuable asset wherever she chooses to go.
Fan and Peer Reactions
The wrestling community reacted strongly to Kai’s release:
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Bayley’s Support: Close friend and stablemate Bayley expressed personal hurt over the decision, highlighting Kai’s talent and potential.
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Fan Outpouring: Social media platforms were flooded with messages of support, showcasing the deep connection Kai had with her audience.
Such reactions underscore the impact she made during her tenure.
Conclusion
Dakota Kai’s release from WWE marks the end of one chapter but the beginning of another. Her skills, experience, and fan support position her for success in any future endeavor. As the wrestling world watches closely, one thing is certain: Dakota Kai’s story is far from over.