WWE Superstars Request Release, Ronda Rousey Exit Verified, Report Claims

World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) is set to lose a couple of its superstars from the roster, while there are rumors of others asking for their release from the company. Luke Harper has asked for his release from the company but most of the attention is on the absence of Sasha Banks, who is said to have been given time off after she asked for a release.

Banks is said to have demanded her release from the company after WWE made the decision to make her and tag team partner Bayley lose their women’s tag team titles at WrestleMania. They were expecting to be given a long run with the belts but the decision was said to have upset both the wrestlers, the former more than the latter.

The ‘Legit Boss’ has not been seen at Monday Night Raw or SmackDown Live events in the last two weeks, which has raised speculation about her future with the company. John Pollock of Post Wrestling reported that WWE was hoping Banks returns after taking some time off and to have her back by the time the next pay-per-view rolls around – Money in the Bank on May 19.

Banks has unfollowed WWE and Vince McMahon on social media platforms, and followed AEW and a number of wrestlers tied to the rival promotion. Even if she wants to make a switch, she will have to be first released by WWE, which is unlikely to happen owing to her popularity within the WWE Universe.

Harper, on the other hand, has confirmed he was looking to leave WWE after requesting his release. He put out a statement via his official twitter account thanking the company and his fellow pro-wrestlers, but also made it clear he would continue to perform as a wrestler.

“As of this evening I have requested a release from WWE. The past six years have been a simply, amazing journey around the world and back with lifelong friends and family. I am proud of it all and proud to say I shared a ring with my co workers,” Harper said.

“This decision, as difficult as it was, feels right for myself and WWE. My goal in the future is to continue to grow as a performer and person and continue to make my family proud,” he added.

Meanwhile, Alexander Wolfe, who was part of the tag team Sanity, also confirmed he was leaving WWE. His Sanity teammate Eric Young was drafted to SmackDown Live in the superstar shakeup, which resulted in Wolfe deciding to walk away from the company.

Another big departure has been confirmed, but the WWE hoped it is just a small hiatus. Ronda Rousey confirmed via an Instagram post that she was looking to start a family with husband Travis Browne after she labeled a picture “#impregnationvacation”.

Rousey was expected to take a hiatus after WrestleMania, especially after it was revealed that she would undergo surgery for a broken hand. ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne confirmed via a source she is indeed taking a break from pro-wrestling – it was unclear when she plans to return but she does have a contract with WWE until 2021.