WWE releases Wes Lee after a new wave of cuts in NXT

Wes Lee is no longer part of WWE. The former NXT North American Champion has been one of the names included in the latest round of internal releases carried out by the company this week, as confirmed by Bodyslam.net. Due to his NXT contract, he will have to comply with a 30-day non-compete clause before appearing in another promotion.

Lee debuted in 2020 as one half of the tag team MSK, alongside Nash Carter. His impact was immediate: they won the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic in 2021 and captured the NXT Tag Team Championships twice. After the group’s dissolution, Lee proved his potential as a singles competitor by winning the North American Championship, a reign that many considered one of the most solid and entertaining in recent years on the yellow brand.

The American-born wrestler became known for his agile style, connection with the crowd, and consistency, which made him one of the cornerstones of NXT during its most recent era. His departure, therefore, has surprised many fans of the brand, who saw him as one of the most reliable members of the roster.

Before joining WWE, Lee had already built a solid reputation in TNA Wrestling under the name Dezmond Xavier. He was part of the group The Rascalz alongside Trey Miguel and Zachary Wentz, becoming one of the most charismatic and spectacular factions on the roster. Their style and chemistry earned them recognition both inside and outside the company, participating in matches that defined the tag team division of that era and opening the door to the next big step in his career: NXT.

Wes Lee joins a list of releases that includes names such as Stevie Turner, Lance Anoa’i, Drako Knox, Haze Jameson, Summer Sorrell, Brayden “BJ” Ray, Jamar Hampton and Jin Tala. For now, it’s unclear what direction his career will take, but with only 30 days of inactivity and a style that fits nearly any promotion, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him back in action soon—perhaps in AEW, TNA, or even Japan.