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WWE has made several changes to its roster over the past two years. Since the start of 2020, the company has released over 130 in-ring performers, with the reason for the majority being budget cuts. Unlike past releases, it wasn't just mid-carders but also main eventers like Bray Wyatt and Braun Strowman. It leaves a question for fans: who will be the next superstar released?
2022 has kicked off with a few superstars looking like they may be on their way out. Whether it be public release requests or being lost in the shuffle, a variety of individuals may have their days numbered in the company.
The wrestling landscape is more wide open than it's ever been, with many promotions flourishing. Whether it be on network television or genuine buzz and momentum, these major companies have created new landing spots for stars looking for options outside Vince McMahon's universe. In this article, let's take a look at five WWE Superstars who could leave in 2022.
5) Former WWE Cruiserweight Champion Brian Kendrick
Brian Kendrick is a former WWE Tag Team and Cruiserweight Champion. The veteran has a spot for himself as a useful component of the company. Whether as an in-ring performer or as a producer, Kendrick has contributed a lot to WWE but it seems like he's not being fulfilled the way he wants.
After being scheduled for a contest against Harland on an episode of NXT 2.0 a few weeks back, Kendrick was conspicuous by his absence. It was then reported by PWInsider that Brian Kendrick had asked for his release but was yet to hear back from the company in the past six weeks.
The former Cruiserweight Champion will likely return to the independent scene or be signed by a major promotion. Kendrick has experience in various roles and can elevate any roster he joins. The Man With The Plan probably has years left in his career so leaving WWE this year would help him maximize his remaining time inside the squared circle.
4) WWE NXT Superstar Roderick Strong
Roderick Strong is currently the leader of the Diamond Mine stable, coming off a successful run as Cruiserweight Champion. Strong has long been one of the most consistent in-ring workers in the company and a mainstay of the WWE NXT brand. He has played various roles on the card and should be spotlighted. Unfortunately, the rebrand to NXT 2.0 has led to stars like Strong being moved aside.
The focus of the brand has been on building new stars. Competitors like Carmelo Hayes, Bron Breakker, and Tony D'Angelo have all gotten over to a certain extent. This has lowered Roderick Strong down the card. His latest tryouts on the main roster haven't inspired much hope for his prospects.
His fellow Undisputed Era members are all in AEW. Adam Cole, Kyle O'Reilly, and Bobby Fish are finding the chemistry that made them a success in NXT. With so many veterans leaving the brand, Roddy could follow suit. Adding Strong to the former UE would make things undeniable and catapult all four men to the top of AEW.
3) Former 2-Time WWE Divas Champion Paige
Paige is currently under a WWE contract. Despite not wrestling since 2017, the first-ever NXT Women's Champion is often used for pre-shows and analysis spots on various WWE programming.
Fans have speculated that Paige could follow in the footsteps of Edge and Daniel Bryan and return from a career-threatening injury. This year may be the last opportunity for WWE to have a pioneer of the Women's Revolution on their roster. With her contract set to expire in June, Paige may leave the company and go elsewhere to compete in the ring.
2) Former 2-Time WWE Champion AJ Styles
It may surprise fans to see former two-time WWE Champion AJ Styles on this list. The Phenomenal One has been one of the most decorated WWE Superstars of the past decade. Styles has been an exceptional in-ring performer with a litany of classic matchups.
The reason for Styles being on the list is that his contract expires in December. When AJ re-signed with WWE back in 2019, he teased that this may be his final contract for any promotion. At 44 years old, AJ Styles doesn't seem to be slowing down in the squared circle, but he might want to hang his boots before it's too late.
1) Mustafa Ali has already asked for his WWE release
To start 2022, Mustafa Ali found himself in the headlines due to a public release request. On January 18, the former RETRIBUTION leader made it clear he wants out of the company. Despite an argument with owner Vince McMahon over creative differences, Ali's request was denied.
This entire Ali situation seems to be different. Ali has years left on his deal with WWE, but his public plea begs to suggest the company will have its hands tied. That's why Mustafa Ali is the biggest WWE Superstar who could leave in 2022.
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