Cora Jade’s post-WWE path is still being written, but one thing is certain—she isn’t slowing down. From indie shows to social media buzz to AEW aspirations, she’s making all the right moves
Her transition from WWE prospect to independent star is a story of reinvention, resilience, and risk-taking. While WWE may have closed one door, Jade has already opened several others—and fans are along for the ride, eager to see where her journey leads next.
For now, the wrestling world watches with interest as Elayna Black returns—not as a developmental talent but as a free agent with something to prove and everything to gain.
Unlike some surprise releases that catch even the talent off-guard, Cora Jade’s story reflects something more nuanced. She knew, in her gut, that her time was winding down. That kind of premonition is rare—and how she handled it speaks volumes about her mindset.
Cora Jade was aware. Not just of her potential release, but of her value, her limits within WWE, and the bigger picture beyond it. And that awareness might be the most powerful tool she has as she steps into the next phase of her career.
Also Read: WWE Star Cora Jade Shares Excitement Over Boyfriend’s RAW Debut
Table of Contents
Cora Jade’s WWE Departure
Shocking End to a Promising Run
Cora Jade’s release from WWE in May 2025 came as a surprise to many fans and wrestling insiders alike.1
At just 24 years old, Jade had already carved out a distinctive niche in NXT with her rebellious persona and in-ring charisma. Known as “The Sorceress of Sin,” she was considered one of the rising stars of WWE’s women’s division.
While WWE never fully capitalized on her momentum with a championship reign or a significant main roster push, her passionate fanbase remained hopeful.
The abrupt release stirred speculation about backstage decisions and contract logistics, but Jade has chosen to focus on the future rather than dwell on the past.
Reinventing Herself as Elayna Black: A Return to Roots
Since leaving WWE, Cora Jade has resurrected her pre-WWE persona—Elayna Black—as she reenters the independent wrestling scene.
For longtime followers, this name evokes nostalgia, as Elayna Black was how she originally gained recognition before signing with WWE in 2021.
Reclaiming her indie identity appears to be both a tactical and emotional move. It signals not only her creative freedom but also her determination to rebuild her brand on her own terms.
By performing under her original moniker, she distances herself from the constraints of WWE creative and reminds fans that she was a force to be reckoned with even before stepping onto the NXT stage.
Black Label Pro Showdown: Facing Rachel Armstrong
One of Elayna Black’s first major appearances post-WWE is set for June 14, when she’ll square off against rising star Rachel Armstrong at a Black Label Pro event.
This match is highly anticipated, especially by indie fans who have followed both women’s journeys.
Black Label Pro, known for featuring a mix of veterans and upcoming talent, provides the perfect stage for Jade to remind everyone of her skills and in-ring psychology.
A strong showing against Armstrong could set the tone for her reascendancy and reestablish her presence as a top-tier performer outside of mainstream promotions.
Cora Jade: Making Waves Across Promotions
ALW, GCW, and TTW
Jade’s post-WWE schedule is packed with appearances for several indie promotions.2
She has already confirmed bookings with:
-
Atomic Legacy Wrestling (ALW)
-
Game Changer Wrestling (GCW)
-
Top Talent Wrestling (TTW)
Her involvement in GCW, in particular, has generated significant buzz. GCW is known for its edgy, unfiltered presentation and loyal cult following.
Wrestling for such a promotion could allow Jade to further redefine her character—perhaps tapping into darker or more hardcore elements that weren’t explored in WWE.
These bookings highlight her willingness to stay busy, visible, and versatile. Rather than fading into obscurity after her release, Jade is actively using this opportunity to expand her creative range and connect with new audiences.
A Shot at AEW? Jade Sets Her Eyes on All Elite Wrestling
Among all the speculation surrounding her next move, one possibility stands out—All Elite Wrestling (AEW).
Cora Jade has made no secret of her admiration for AEW’s women’s division and has even teased interest in joining the promotion through her social media platforms.
AEW’s recent expansion in its women’s division and its openness to signing former WWE talent make this a realistic path. With her charisma, athleticism, and loyal following, Jade could be a natural fit.
AEW offers the creative latitude that aligns well with her rebellious, dark persona—something that might not have flourished fully in WWE’s more structured system.
A feud with someone like Julia Hart, Toni Storm, or Skye Blue could help elevate the division further while offering Jade a new playground to explore her talent.
Beyond the Ring: Potential Ventures Like Mandy Rose
While wrestling remains her top priority, Cora Jade has also hinted at the possibility of exploring non-wrestling ventures in the near future.
Much like Mandy Rose, who transitioned into modeling, content creation, and business projects after her WWE exit, Jade could easily follow suit.
She has built a strong personal brand over the years, and her alternative look, combined with her sharp wit and social media savvy, makes her appealing to brands, sponsors, and even entertainment industries beyond wrestling.
Jade’s recent posts have included professional photoshoots, endorsements, and lifestyle content, indicating that she is already laying the foundation for possible opportunities outside the squared circle.
Cora Jade: Social Media Strategy
Staying Relevant and Engaged
Since her release, Jade has used her social media platforms—particularly Instagram and X (formerly Twitter)—to keep fans updated on her journey.3
She frequently shares training clips, travel updates, fan interactions, and inspirational messages about bouncing back from setbacks.
Her proactive online presence is a key asset. In an era where wrestlers often live or die by how well they manage their digital persona, Jade is excelling.
She’s building anticipation for her next steps while also showing transparency about her struggles and ambitions.
Through memes, personal insights, and fan Q&As, Jade has maintained a connection with her audience, turning them from passive observers into active supporters of her next chapter.
Lessons from NXT: Building on Experience
Cora Jade’s time in NXT wasn’t without value. She honed her in-ring storytelling, improved her promo work, and learned how to work under live television pressure—skills that will serve her well in her indie bookings and any future major promotions.
Her feud with Roxanne Perez, short-lived though it was, remains a standout moment in her NXT career. The storyline showed her capacity for psychological depth and heel work, which indie promotions can now further explore without creative constraints.
The experience gained under WWE’s Performance Center system has given her a professional edge over many of her indie counterparts. Her transitions, ring awareness, and adaptability make her a desirable name for promoters across the board.
The Road Ahead: What Comes Next?
So, what does the future hold for Cora Jade?
In the short term, it’s clear she’s going to make a mark on the indie scene. Her schedule is already filling up, and she’s steadily rebuilding her momentum.
Medium-term, the AEW rumors could become more than just whispers, especially if she impresses the right people.
And long term? Jade has the tools and ambition to shape a multi-faceted career.
Whether she remains in wrestling, branches out into entertainment, or balances both worlds, she’s shown she has the determination and vision to succeed.
Also Read: Cora Jade’s Road to Recovery: 23-Year-Old WWE Star Shares Major Injury Update
Cora Jade Opens Up on WWE Release
Was She Aware Before It Happened?
WWE releases always make headlines—not just because of who gets released, but because of how they react.
When it comes to Cora Jade, her departure stirred up conversation among fans and industry insiders alike.
A former standout in NXT, Cora had all the tools for stardom: charisma, in-ring ability, and a loyal fanbase. So, what exactly went wrong? And did she know it was coming?
In a candid and emotional interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, the 24-year-old star didn’t hold back. She delved into the circumstances surrounding her exit and the intuition she had months before the official word came down.
Let’s break down the most revealing elements of her experience.
A Promising Career That Seemed Destined for the Main Roster
Cora Jade burst onto the NXT scene with momentum and a distinct edge that made her stand out. Known for her punk rock aesthetic and aggressive in-ring style, she quickly became a focal point of the NXT Women’s Division.
She was part of high-profile matches, built strong rivalries—most notably with Roxanne Perez—and positioned herself as one of the brightest prospects in WWE’s developmental system.
Many fans assumed it was only a matter of time before she got the call-up to RAW or SmackDown. The future seemed inevitable, until it wasn’t.
Cora Jade’s Gut Feeling in Late 2024
During her interview with Ariel Helwani, Cora dropped a bombshell—she had a feeling that she was going to be released months before it actually happened.
According to her, this intuition wasn’t based on paranoia or rumors—it stemmed from a specific conversation she had with a WWE figure in November 2024.
While she didn’t disclose exactly who she spoke with or what was said, the tone of the interaction left her unsettled.
“I walked away from that meeting thinking… something’s off. Like maybe I don’t have as much time left here as I thought,” Jade shared.
This moment, subtle as it may have seemed at the time, lingered in her mind and planted the seeds of doubt about her future in the company.
WWE Releases: The Human Side Often Goes Unnoticed
WWE releases are often viewed from a distance, like chess moves in a larger corporate strategy. But for the performers themselves, they’re deeply personal, emotional events.
“I was heartbroken, but I wasn’t surprised,” Cora admitted. “It’s like when you’re in a relationship that’s starting to go cold. You don’t want to say it out loud, but you feel it slipping.”
That statement alone reveals a great deal. Cora wasn’t blindsided. She had emotionally prepared for the possibility, which perhaps softened the blow—but didn’t erase the disappointment.
She also noted that while WWE gave her incredible exposure and opportunities, there were moments where she felt creatively stifled, or that her ideas weren’t taken seriously.
View this post on Instagram
From Hope to Heartbreak: May 2025 Becomes a Turning Point
Cora Jade was officially released in May 2025 as part of another round of talent cuts. Her name among the list shocked many in the wrestling community.
But for her, it wasn’t the end—it was a pivot.
“I took a couple days to cry, to be angry, to question everything,” she said. “Then I realized: maybe this is the best thing that could’ve happened to me.”
This attitude reflects a maturity beyond her years. Rather than dwell in bitterness, Jade is choosing to look forward—to explore new avenues in wrestling and beyond.
Mental Health and the Unspoken Struggles of Wrestling
Cora also used the interview as a chance to speak about the emotional and mental health challenges that come with being a pro wrestler—especially in a system as rigorous and high-pressure as WWE’s.
She mentioned the psychological toll of constantly needing to prove herself and feeling like her best wasn’t always enough.
“There were nights I couldn’t sleep. I’d lie awake thinking: ‘What more can I do? What do they want from me?’”
This transparency was appreciated by fans and highlighted an important, often overlooked truth: wrestlers are human beings first.
Also Read: Cora Jade Issues a Warning to WWE Superstars Amid Her Absence
