WWE Released Nia Jax While She Was On A Mental Health Break
More details on Nia Jax's WWE release, as the former Raw Women's Champion tells her story.
Nia Jax has claimed that WWE released her while she was on a mental health break from the company.
One of 18 wrestlers released by WWE last Thursday (4 November), the former Raw Women's Champion posted a statement to her Instagram page the following day, revealing that she had also asked for the break to be extended:-
I usually keep my personal life private, but yesterday's reports leave me with no option but to clarify matters. I recently took a short leave of absence from WWE for a mental health break. I've been working through so much — more than I can share — and so I took some time, with the full support of the company, to take care of myself..
AdvertisementEarlier this week, after WWE sent me my schedule to return to the ring for the November 15 show, I asked for an extension to my mental health break, feeling that I needed more time, and hoping I would have the ongoing support of the company I have given my all to for the past 7 years. I did not receive a response. The next I heard, I was being released. My vaccination status was never mentioned. I wasn't given any choices or options..
It breaks my heart to be so abruptly let go, without consultation, when dealing with so much privately. I loved my career at WWE, I love the men and women I worked with, and I am going to need time to process this huge loss. I appreciate those people who have shown understanding and compassion during an incredibly difficult time.
Jax had been off WWE television since losing to Shayna Baszler on Raw's 20 September episode. It was reported soon after that she was expected to be away for "an extended period of time," though the reason behind this was never disclosed.
In an update, Fightful Select has confirmed that Jax was, indeed, on a break from WWE and had asked for an extension. The creative team had come up with plans for her return - but not necessarily anything long-term.
The New York Post reported on Thursday that Nia's unvaccinated COVID-19 status was one of the factors contributing to her released. She denies that this was mentioned to her above.