WWE has been home to some of the greatest wrestlers in history, providing a platform for countless men and women to build their careers. However, while many stars move on to other promotions like AEW, some have completely stepped away from professional wrestling after leaving WWE.
Here’s a look at three former WWE Superstars who never returned to the ring after their departure.
#3. Lacey Evans – A Shift to Business Ventures
Lacey Evans was once a major player in WWE’s women’s division, especially in 2019, when she had a stellar run. However, over the next few years, her TV appearances dwindled, and she was ultimately released in August 2023.
Since leaving WWE, Evans has not wrestled anywhere else. Instead, she has focused on business ventures, including opening a café and exploring other entrepreneurial opportunities. Despite her impressive in-ring career, it seems Evans has found a new passion outside of wrestling.
#2. Mandy Rose – A Sudden Exit from WWE
Former NXT Women’s Champion Mandy Rose was one of WWE’s top female stars, but her career was cut short due to her premium content on a subscription-based platform. WWE’s strict policies on social media content led to her release in December 2022.
Since then, Rose has not wrestled anywhere. While she has occasionally discussed a potential return to WWE, she is currently enjoying success outside the ring. In addition to her online ventures, Mandy Rose got married last year and has focused on her personal life and business projects.
#1. AJ Lee – A Legendary Career Cut Short
One of the most iconic female wrestlers in WWE history, AJ Lee retired in 2015 due to spine damage. Since then, rumors about her potential return have surfaced multiple times, but she has yet to step back into the squared circle.
While she hasn’t wrestled, AJ Lee has remained active in the entertainment industry. She has worked on various projects in Hollywood and even appeared in the wrestling-based TV series Heels, alongside her husband CM Punk.
Despite fan speculation, there is no confirmation of an in-ring return. However, if AJ Lee ever does come back, she could instantly shake up WWE’s women’s division.
While many former WWE stars continue wrestling in other promotions, Lacey Evans, Mandy Rose, and AJ Lee have all stepped away from the ring after leaving WWE. Whether due to career changes, personal choices, or injuries, these three talented women have not wrestled since their departures. Fans remain hopeful that at least one of them might return someday, but for now, their time in the squared circle appears to be over.
FAQs
Why did Lacey Evans leave WWE?
Lacey Evans was released in August 2023 due to a lack of TV time. Since then, she has focused on business ventures and has not returned to wrestling.
Why was Mandy Rose released from WWE?
Mandy Rose was released in December 2022 due to content she posted on a subscription-based platform, which violated WWE’s social media policies.
Will Mandy Rose return to WWE?
Mandy Rose has hinted at a return if the right storyline comes up, but she is currently focused on her personal life and business ventures.
Why did AJ Lee retire from wrestling?
AJ Lee retired in 2015 due to spine damage. Since then, she has worked in Hollywood but has not returned to the ring.
Could AJ Lee return to WWE in the future?
While fans speculate about AJ Lee’s return, she has not confirmed any plans to wrestle again.
