WWE’s decision to release Dakota Kai for the second time stemmed from the company’s assessment of her position on the women’s roster, according to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Sources indicated Kai was seen as valuable for elevating emerging talent but not as a long-term top-tier performer.
Dave Meltzer reported WWE officials believed Kai’s salary didn’t align with her projected role of primarily putting over rising stars like Roxanne Perez and Giulia. While capable of working with main eventers like Becky Lynch or Liv Morgan, these were viewed as short-term programs rather than sustained pushes.
The New Zealand native previously returned to WWE in July 2022 after her first release that April. Her most recent run included Damage CTRL faction membership and Women’s Tag Team Championship success. The release reflects WWE’s ongoing roster evaluation prioritizing financial efficiency for talent positioned beneath their established main event women’s division.
Kai’s departure coincides with WWE’s emphasis on building around cornerstone stars like Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair and Jade Cargill. At 36, the veteran now enters free agency with extensive experience that could make her a valuable acquisition for other major promotions.