Ava announces her departure from WWE

Simone Johnson, better known as Ava in WWE, has just announced her departure from the company, bringing to an end a five-year period. The former General Manager of NXT revealed that her appearance last Tuesday was her last as a WWE superstar, and that her departure is due to a personal decision.

"This past Tuesday was my last appearance on NXT and, subsequently, on WWE. Thank you to all who have cheered me on, watched, and supported me along my journey. Although my decision not to renew my contract was very difficult, it also marks a new turning point in my life. It has been an honor and a privilege to be Ava," she wrote on her Instagram account.

The daughter of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, granddaughter of Rocky Johnson, and great-granddaughter of Peter Maivia, Ava signed a developmental contract with WWE in 2020, becoming the first fourth-generation talent to sign with the company. Ava debuted on NXT television programming in 2022 as Ava Raine as part of Schism, the faction led by Joe Gacy.

The wrestler barely competed in half a dozen matches in NXT, half of them in non-televised live shows. When Schism was dissolved, Ava was appointed General Manager of the brand. An appointment endorsed by William Regal. That took place in January 2024. Today, two years later, Ava has decided to end her adventure in the company.

Her tenure, however, has not left fans indifferent. Hated and loved in equal measure, Ava had to deal with many criticisms from the moment she debuted in NXT, whether for her questionable quality in the ring or her position as General Manager. Being The Rock's daughter prevented her from being respected beyond the Performance Center.