WWE Releases dominated the start of this week’s Wrestling Uncensored, the 732nd. Join Dave Simon and Champion Pro Wrestler “Genesis” Johnny North as they dive into the major WWE talent releases that have sent shockwaves through the wrestling world and provide a detailed breakdown of this week’s WWE SmackDown results. From Roman Reigns’ fiery confrontations to unexpected tag team alliances, find out what’s happening on SmackDown and who might capitalize on WWE’s recent releases. Plus, catch all the action from an intense AEW Dynamite and the drama unfolding on WWE Raw, setting the stage for WWE Backlash and AEW All or Nothing.
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Major WWE Releases: Where Do They Go Next?
The wrestling community felt shockwaves as WWE announced multiple talent releases this week. Names like Shayna Baszler, Dakota Kai, Braun Strowman, and rising star Cora Jade were among those let go.
Johnny North shared, “The one that really caught people’s eye and upset fans was Dakota Kai. She had such a strong fan base and a lot of potential, but unfortunately, she had a lot of setbacks.” Dave Simon chimed in, saying, “Shayna Baszler and Dakota Kai could easily fit into AEW’s women’s division. Shayna especially has a lot to offer.”
Audience member Angelo commented during the live stream, “Dakota deserved better! AEW should snap her up quickly.” Both hosts agreed that Dakota’s talent could shine brighter in AEW, despite her injury history.
Braun Strowman‘s release, meanwhile, came as less of a surprise. Johnny pointed out, “Braun just didn’t look great physically in this run; moving seemed hard for him.” Dave added that after Paul Heyman’s recent harsh comments on Strowman, the writing might have been on the wall for his WWE tenure. As for Braun’s future, Johnny suggested, “Impact Wrestling might be a better home for him right now.”
Cora Jade’s release shocked many fans due to her youth and potential, but her multiple ACL injuries might have played a role. Johnny speculated that she might move towards modeling, much like Mandy Rose, which Dave agreed was probably a smarter choice for her long-term health.
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SmackDown Highlights & Mishaps: Roman Reigns, Nathan Frazier, and More
With the WWE releases dominating the headlines, SmackDown opened with Roman Reigns commanding the ring with trademark intensity, reminding everyone why he’s still the undisputed face of WWE. His explosive confrontation with a surprise challenger instantly electrified fans. Johnny noted, “Roman continues to deliver compelling promos that keep us invested.” Dave added, “This is exactly the type of intensity WWE needs consistently.”
Bianca Belair injected even more intensity into the women’s division by making it clear she aims to reclaim the championship. With Nia Jax and Tiffany Stratton also vying for the spotlight, the women’s title scene has become SmackDown’s most captivating storyline. Viewer Lorne commented, “Bianca versus Nia or Tiffany is something I can’t wait to see.”
The tag team division saw major shifts as well, highlighted by Fraxiom’s impressive debut and victory over Pretty Deadly. General Manager Nick Aldis hinted at new opportunities and intensifying rivalries. Additionally, Jade Cargill and Tiffany Stratton formed an unexpected alliance, signaling major changes in the tag team landscape.
Aleister Black’s highly anticipated return against The Miz delivered the match of the night, showcasing Black’s aggression and reminding fans why he became a fan favorite years ago. His decisive victory with a Black Mass left fans eager for what’s next in this intense rivalry. Johnny remarked, “Black looked amazing; WWE needs more performances like this.”
However, SmackDown also had its mishaps. Nathan Frazier’s botched standing shooting star press seriously injured Elton Prince of Pretty Deadly. The hosts expressed deep concern about safety and training, as viewer Ryan emphasized, “Frazier needs more training; safety first!” Santos Escobar’s lackluster match against Rey Phoenix also drew criticism, with Dave noting, “Escobar has lost momentum; it’s not working.”
AEW Dynamite: Highlights and Reactions
AEW Dynamite delivered with exciting matches and compelling storytelling. Samoa Joe and Jon Moxley set the stage for a brutal steel cage showdown. Mercedes Moné made significant waves in the women’s division, raising the bar for competition. Anticipation built further around Hangman Page vs. Will Ospreay in the Owen Hart Cup semifinals.
Johnny North enthusiastically praised AEW, stating, “AEW’s building great stories, and Samoa Joe vs. Moxley is going to be brutal!” Dave Simon agreed, emphasizing AEW’s superior storytelling and consistent delivery of engaging matches. Viewer Steven commented, “AEW always keeps me guessing—far more exciting than WWE lately.” Who knows, could some of the WWE releases end up in an AEW ring at All or Nothing?
WWE Raw: Seth Rollins’ Questionable Alliances & Sami Zayn’s Stand
Raw featured Seth Rollins’ controversial alliance with Paul Heyman and Braun Breakker, putting Sami Zayn at a crossroads. Johnny North critiqued the overly dramatic storyline, calling it unrealistic. Dave Simon agreed, lamenting WWE’s overly scripted product, saying, “The bromance angles are getting tired.” Viewer Michael echoed their sentiments, remarking, “This feels like a soap opera, not wrestling.”
Road to WWE Backlash & AEW All or Nothing
WWE Backlash, set for May 10, 2025, promises excitement with John Cena vs. Randy Orton, Becky Lynch vs. Lyra Valkyria, and Gunther facing Pat McAfee. Dave suggested a possible Goldberg return, sparking curiosity among fans. Johnny criticized WWE’s repetitive tag team scenarios, indicating the need for freshness. Viewer Jason noted, “Cena vs. Orton again? Hopefully, they bring something fresh.”
Meanwhile, AEW All or Nothing on May 25, 2025, is building tremendous anticipation. Matches like Hangman Page vs. Will Ospreay and Samoa Joe vs. Jon Moxley exemplify AEW’s compelling storytelling. Johnny highlighted AEW’s success in creating emotional investment compared to WWE’s recent struggles.
