Shayna Baszler has finally spoken out about her departure from WWE, revealing that she still had three years remaining on a recently extended contract when she was released. In an interview on the Ariel Helwani Show, the former NXT Women’s Champion reflected on her eight-year tenure with the company.
“I had three more years left. I was let go. I had signed an extension some time ago and hoped to fulfill it, but then I was released… It never felt good, but it also wasn’t a surprise,” Baszler shared.
Her last WWE match occurred in April 2025, where she was a member of the Pure Fusion Collective. Following Sonya Deville’s contract non-renewal in February, Baszler noticed signs of the group’s decline.
“We were pitching storylines and ideas, trying to build our presence on social media, and being creative, but nothing really took off… It’s disappointing now, but I knew the situation we were in,” she said.
Upon release, Baszler had to observe a 90-day non-compete clause. Her experience highlights that WWE contracts don’t necessarily guarantee job security, and performers face the ongoing risk of being released.
Baszler remains a standout figure in WWE’s legacy, and questions linger about her next steps. Whatever path she chooses, wrestlers clearly seek more fulfilling opportunities than what their WWE tenure ultimately offered.
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Fan Take: Shayna Baszler’s revelation underscores the harsh realities WWE talent face behind the scenes, reminding fans that even established stars are vulnerable to abrupt changes. This news is significant as it may encourage discussions on contract transparency and talent treatment, potentially influencing future reforms in the wrestling industry.
