5 Top WWE rumors from this week: Big plans for Roman Reigns vs. Brock Lesnar, Nick Khan to replace Vince McMahon in WWE (December 11th, 2021)

#2 WWE's request to Jeff Hardy before his release

Jeff Hardy was released by WWE earlier this week following a "rough night" at a recent live event. Hardy was seemingly not in complete control of himself, and he left his match while it was still happening. Dave Meltzer has revealed that WWE asked Hardy to go to rehab after this incident, and the star refused, though he knew he'd face major repercussions for his actions.

''According to WWE sources, Hardy was asked to go to rehab after the incident at the show, and then refused," said Meltzer. "They said that Hardy was fully aware that if he did refuse, that WWE would have to take action."

Jeff Hardy was part of the Friday Night SmackDown roster, and WWE seemingly had some major plans for him, including a potential feud with Universal Champion Roman Reigns.

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#1 Why WWE has not released Paige

The year 2021 has been filled with several rounds of releases, as WWE let go of a huge chunk of its roster in the name of "budget cuts." With this pattern in mind, Dave Meltzer was recently asked why former Divas Champion Paige has not been released. Though she has been inactive for a long time, Meltzer explained how WWE might feel that Paige still provides them value with her appearances.

"Maybe they feel that there is value in her as far as appearances and things like that," said Meltzer. "That her name is strong enough and stuff that, it's worth it to keep her employed and worth it for the company. Also, because of the injury and the career-ending nature of it, you know there may be some feelings regarding that as well."

Paige last appeared on WWE television last year before WrestleMania 36. She has mostly been focusing on her Twitch channel recently, but she has hinted on multiple occasions about a potential in-ring return. For now, fans will have to wait and see what her future holds.