In a significant development in the world of professional wrestling, WWE star Aliyah, known in real life as Nhooph Al-Areebi, has taken to Twitter to confirm her departure from the company. Aliyah, who had been with WWE for several years, made the announcement that marks the end of her tenure in the world-renowned wrestling promotion.4
As of today I am no longer apart of WWE.
— ALIYAH 3:17 (@WWE_Aliyah) September 21, 2023
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Aliyah’s journey with WWE began in 2015 when she signed a developmental contract with the company. She made her highly anticipated television debut on the January 12, 2016 episode of NXT, WWE’s developmental brand. Over the years, she showcased her wrestling skills and charismatic presence to the WWE Universe.
One of the notable highlights of Aliyah’s WWE career occurred in 2021 when she was drafted to the SmackDown brand, offering her the opportunity to compete on a larger stage and interact with a wider audience. However, it was in 2022 that Aliyah achieved a career-defining moment when she teamed up with Raquel Rodriguez to capture the vacant WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship on August 29, 2022. Their victory marked a significant achievement in her WWE journey.
Despite their initial success, Aliyah and her tag team partner ultimately dropped the coveted titles to the formidable duo of Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky, who were representing the faction known as Damage CTRL. This title loss came on September 12, 2022, concluding Aliyah and Raquel Rodriguez’s reign at just 14 days. Little did fans know that this match would be Aliyah’s final appearance in WWE for the foreseeable future.
Aliyah’s WWE departure was not solely prompted by creative decisions or contractual matters. She has been sidelined due to an injury, specifically dealing with a rib and AC (acromioclavicular) sprain. The wrestler herself confirmed her injury status through an Instagram post, where she expressed her gratitude for the experience and the chance to perform at the highest level. Despite the injury setback, Aliyah conveyed her unwavering passion for the sport and her determination to return to the ring.
In her Instagram statement, Aliyah reflected on her last match, labeling it as one of her favorites. She expressed profound thanks to her tag partner, Raquel, and the entire Damage CTRL faction, recognizing the opportunity and emotions it provided. Aliyah’s injury seemed to ignite a newfound determination within her, leading her to declare her intention to persevere and continue showcasing her skills in the squared circle.
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As Aliyah embarks on this new chapter outside of WWE, fans, colleagues, and industry insiders will be keenly watching her journey and recovery. Her passion for wrestling and her determination to make a mark in the industry shine through her words, and her future endeavors will undoubtedly be met with anticipation and support from the wrestling community.
