How multi-time WWE champion subtly paid tribute to released star Indi Hartwell on SmackDown

WWE recently released a few superstars from the company, and Indi Hartwell was one of the names from the women's division. It came as a huge shocker for fans and her fellow mates, with everyone left stunned. Following her departure, a lot of WWE Superstars and her well-wishers expressed heartfelt gratitude and sent warm wishes for Hartwell.

On the latest edition of SmackDown, her good friend, Candice LeRae, also paid a subtle tribute to the 28-year-old. LeRae is a multi-time WWE champion, as she previously held the NXT Women's Championship once and is also the current Women's Speed Champion.

During her entrance on SmackDown, The Poison Pixie stood at the ramp and held up her hand in the air as if she gave a high five to Indi Hartwell, and her gesture evoked a keen sense of sadness. The two often used to come together during their entrance and give a high five to each other to signify their friendship. However, Candice LeRae was all alone and isolated this week.

Regardless of that, she poignantly raised her hand as if her best friend was still there. LeRae's heartfelt gesture spoke volumes about the bond between the two women, transcending the realm of the wrestling ring. Indi Hartwell's WWE departure has left a void within her heart, as the two best friends would not be able to perform inside the squared circle together.

It will be interesting to see what the future holds for Candice LeRae on SmackDown. She is currently entangled in a complex storyline involving Nia Jax and Tiffany Stratton on the blue brand.

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How did Indi Hartwell react to her WWE release?

Indi Hartwell's recent release has sparked a lot of concerns among the wrestling fraternity. The former SmackDown star later broke her silence and commented on the situation. Hartwell expressed her utmost gratitude for being able to live up to the dream that she had in her childhood.

While her story did not have a fairytale ending, Indi was quite happy that she got to spend five years in WWE, the company she aspired to be in. Moreover, the 28-year-old said that she was just a normal girl from Australia who worked hard to turn her dreams into a reality.

Indi Hartwell recalled how her WWE journey began at Barclay Center and how it ended at the very place. She also quoted a famous line: "Don't cry because it's over; smile because it happened!" All in all, the former SmackDown Superstar looked optimistic about her current situation, hoping for better things ahead.

It will be interesting to see how things unfold for Hartwell from here on. She surely has a bright future ahead in the pro wrestling industry.