WWE’s ever-evolving roster has always been as dynamic as its storylines, but 2024 has been particularly notable for some unexpected exits. This year, the wrestling community witnessed the departure of several high-profile figures, including seasoned wrestlers and beloved on-screen personalities. These exits were not only surprising but also came at a time when the careers of these superstars were taking intriguing turns, adding to the shock factor. Let’s dive into the most startling WWE departures that have left fans and insiders buzzing this year.
Jinder Mahal: A Rock-Solid Goodbye
Jinder Mahal, a former WWE Champion whose career resurgence in early 2024 captivated many, found himself outside the WWE ring by April. Despite a memorable interaction with The Rock during WWE RAW Day One and a social media feud that boosted his popularity, Mahal’s release came as a shock. After a high-profile match against Seth Rollins for the World Heavyweight Championship, where he was seen as a rising threat, his departure left fans speculating about the sudden decision.
Samantha Irvin’s Unexpected Exit
The wrestling world was taken aback when Samantha Irvin announced her departure from WWE earlier this year. Known for her unique flair in introducing talents, Irvin had carved a niche for herself as a fan-favorite ring announcer. Her exit, announced just before this week’s RAW, was unexpected, especially as she was replaced by the legendary announcer Lilian Garcia. This change left a significant void in the WWE presentation team and stirred discussions among the community.
Bobby Lashley’s Quiet Departure
Bobby Lashley’s tenure at WWE SmackDown ended not with a bang, but a whimper. His final storyline involved an alliance with the Street Profits and B-Fab, culminating in a WrestleMania XL match that, despite its excitement, had a lackluster buildup. In August, amidst speculations about his contract, Lashley was quietly shifted to the alumni section of WWE’s website, signaling his departure in a manner that many felt didn’t do justice to his contributions.
Becky Lynch Chooses Family Over Fame
Becky Lynch, one of WWE’s top female stars, made headlines not for a match win, but for her decision to not renew her contract. After a challenging Steel Cage match against Liv Morgan in May, Lynch’s contract expired in June, and she chose to focus more on her family. Despite being a free agent, Lynch is still mentioned in WWE circles, hinting that her relationship with the company isn’t entirely severed.
Vince McMahon’s Dramatic Exit
The most dramatic departure of the year, however, belongs to none other than Vince McMahon. After temporarily retiring in 2022 amid serious allegations, McMahon returned to facilitate the sale of WWE to Endeavor. However, his comeback was short-lived. McMahon resigned as the executive chairman of the newly formed TKO, following a new lawsuit accusing him of grave charges. His exit marks another chapter in the storied and often controversial career of the wrestling magnate.
These departures each tell a story of unpredictability and change within WWE, reflecting the often volatile nature of the wrestling entertainment industry. As fans, while we may miss these iconic figures, their legacies endure, and the drama of their departures only adds to the rich tapestry of WWE history. Whether these moves lead to new beginnings or unexpected comebacks, one thing remains clear: in WWE, expect the unexpected.
I am a writer with a passion for technology and gaming. I write about a variety of subjects, including Esports, Games, Shows, and Sports. I create engaging and informative content for Hiptoro.