10 most surprising WWE releases in 2021: Where are they now?

#8. Bronson Reed – Former NXT North American Champion

The second Australian on this list, Bronson Reed seemed set to debut on WWE's main roster upon the return of fans but was released in August. Fortunately, the former NXT North American Champion hasn't been short of work since then.

Now known as JONAH, the big man appeared in New Japan Pro Wrestling and IMPACT Wrestling. He confronted IMPACT World Champion Moose at NJPW Battle in the Valley and attacked Josh Alexander at Turning Point a week later. JONAH could be in the running for the IMPACT World Title soon.

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#7. Peyton Royce & #6 Billie Kay – Former WWE Women's Tag Team Champions

The first complete batch of WWE releases came shortly after WrestleMania 37, where Billie Kay teamed up with Carmella in a Tag Team Gauntlet Match. That makes her release more surprising, considering how entertaining she had been on SmackDown in 2021.

Peyton Royce was also let go that day, which is a shame as The IIconics were one of WWE's most popular female tag teams even if they were separated. The two best friends reunited in IMPACT Wrestling and instantly won the Knockouts Tag Team Championship in their debut at Bound For Glory in October.

They're now known as Jessica McKay and Cassie Lee, with their new team called The IInspiration. McKay and Lee even launched a variety podcast together titled Off Her Chops.