5 recently released WWE Superstars who are yet to return to the ring 

WWE recently released several superstars as part of their extensive layoffs. This was done due to COVID-19 and the company’s general wish to trim down the roster.

The released WWE Superstars' treatment was slammed by fans, with many also questioning the logic behind letting fan-favorites and elite workers leave.

Under an agreement with the company, the released WWE Superstars can compete in other promotions after a brief sabbatical. Many have jumped to new pastures since their release, with AEW being the main home for the victims of the layoff. Others, like Mickie James, have returned to alternate promotions and are currently title-holders.

However, some wrestlers who left are yet to return to the squared circle. Fans are keeping a close eye on them to try and see where they might end up exhibiting their craft.

Here are five recently released WWE Superstars whose returns to the ring are still in the works.

#5 In our list of recently released WWE Superstars who are yet to return to the ring: Lars Sullivan

Dylan Miley, known as Lars Sullivan under the umbrella of Connecticut, was released by the company in February 2021. Before that, however, he was in the middle of a considerable push. Lars was portrayed as a monstrous heel who dominated his opponents in the ring.

Unfortunately, the series of controversies surrounding his personal life did little to benefit his wrestling career. Misogynistic and racist comments from him on the internet surfaced to a hostile reaction, and his appearance in a controversial adult film did not help his case either.

Miley’s release was thus a foregone conclusion before it even happened. He was released quietly and without acknowledgment on the company's website. Subsequently, the released superstar hinted that his wrestling career might be over.

#4 Nia Jax and her leave of absence

The company shocked its fanbase when it let go of some high-profile talent at one stage of their en masse release spree. Nia Jax was among the released WWE Superstars, whose forced exit and a subsequent statement put them under an ugly spotlight.

The former Raw Women’s Champion revealed that she had taken a leave of absence from WWE to focus on her mental health. When the company scheduled her return to the ring, she asked for an extension. However, they responded to her request by releasing her from her contract.

Jax is yet to announce a return to wrestling. Recently, however, when asked if she would be an entrant in the 2022 Royal Rumble match, she replied in the negative.

#3 Samoa Joe is waiting for the right time to strike

The most shocking release from the list was that of Samoa Joe. One of the most consistent and popular wrestlers on the roster, he was let go for the second time in 2022.

The three-time NXT Champion was released in 2021 but was hired again. He then captured a record-breaking third NXT Championship before the news dropped that he had been released yet again.

The Samoan Submission Machine is yet to return to the ring. Given his talent and reputation, a return to a top promotion could soon be on the cards for the released superstar. Many released WWE Superstars have jumped ship to All Elite Wrestling, and he could be the next one to do it.

#2 Jeff Hardy's actions leave him sidelined

Right before the turn of the year, it was reported that WWE had released industry veteran Jeff Hardy from his contract, with him being the latest big name on the list of released WWE Superstars.

Hardy caused controversy by leaving the ring and disappearing into the crowd at a live event in Texas. Following that, the Charismatic Enigma was let go by his employers.

Brother Nero is now a released superstar and free agent, and fans are eagerly awaiting his return. While it is still in the works, it hasn’t stopped fans from fantasy-booking a reunion with his brother Matt Hardy, who departed WWE in 2020.

#1 Bray Wyatt looking for his new fireflies

Only Vince McMahon and company can make someone the hottest star in the business and let go of them in an instant. That is exactly what happened with Bray Wyatt.

Wyatt’s rebranding as The Fiend was critically acclaimed by fans. The Eater of Worlds bounced back with his creativity and dedication after an underwhelming initial run. It was for this reason that the news of Wyatt’s inclusion in the list of released WWE Superstars sent shockwaves across the wrestling world.

AEW entered talks with Wyatt after his 90-day non-compete clause expired. Although he is yet to return to the ring, there is probably no other return more anticipated in wrestling today than Wyatt’s.