Latest news with #HitRow
Newsweek
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Released WWE Star Has Interest From TNA Wrestling: Report
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. New details have emerged regarding the departure of Ashante "Thee" Adonis from WWE. A new report has confirmed that his contract was allowed to expire on August 10, making him an immediate free agent, and that he received high praise from officials in NXT on his way out. Adonis announced his departure himself in a social media post on Sunday. He had been a part of the WWE system for six years. Former WWE Star Immediate Free Agent According to a Fightful report, Adonis was informed a couple of weeks prior that his contract would not be renewed. Because his contract expired rather than being terminated, he does not have the standard 90-day non-compete clause and is free to take bookings for any promotion immediately. The report also notes that Adonis had remained on a WWE main roster contract, despite spending the last year performing on the developmental NXT brand. This is a significant detail, as main roster deals are typically more lucrative. More news: WWE Superstar Announces Retirement Match Praise From WWE Despite the company's decision not to re-sign him, Adonis reportedly left on very good terms. Sources in NXT praised him for his work ethic and his constant efforts to improve his craft. SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 17: Nia Jax and Bianca Belair in action during Smackdown at Pechanga Arena on January 17, 2025 in San Diego, California. SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 17: Nia Jax and Bianca Belair in action during Smackdown at Pechanga Arena on January 17, 2025 in San Diego, California. WWE/Getty Images It was noted that in addition to his regular training at the WWE Performance Center, Adonis was known for going out and training on his own time as well. Hit Row's WWE Rollercoaster Ashante "Thee" Adonis's entire WWE career was defined by his membership in the popular faction, Hit Row. The group was one of the hottest acts in NXT before being called up to SmackDown in 2021 and then shockingly released just one month later. The new creative regime brought them back in the summer of 2022, but their second run on the main roster failed to gain traction. The group eventually moved back down to NXT, where Adonis has been a featured performer in the tag team division. What's Next For Thee Adonis? With his WWE chapter now closed, the future looks bright for the talented free agent. It has been reported that there is already interest from some talent in TNA for him to make appearances there. He previously wrestled for the promotion in January of this year, facing Jake Something. His combination of charisma, athletic ability, and a strong work ethic will make him a valuable addition to any roster he joins. More WWE News: For more on WWE, head to Newsweek Sports.
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
AJ Francis Reacts To Surprise WWE NXT Return
AJ Francis made a surprise appearance at this week's episode of WWE NXT, and reacted hilariously to it. Francis joined KC Navarro in ambushing Mike Santana this week on NXT, in a measure of revenge after Santana attacked the pair on TNA iMPACT. In the NXT match, Francis and Navarro cost Santana a shot at the TNA World Championship and helped Trick Williams retain his title. Advertisement The moment came as a surprise to fans watching. For Francis, it was his first time on WWE-branded TV since 2023. It was also his first NXT appearance since 2021. In a post on X, Francis shared the iconic meme of Idris Elba's Stringer Bell from The Wire, telling fans that he was 'back up.' 'I want you to put the word out there that we back up. You understand me? We back up,' Bell said in the Season 1, Episode 13 titled 'Sentencing.' The return was Francis' first appearance in NXT since he was under WWE contract as Top Dolla, part of the Hit Row stable. It's currently unclear whether or not Francis will appear in any future WWE content. However, the fact that TNA and WWE are now connected seems to suggest it's much more likely. What did you think? Were you shocked by AJ Francis' return? Do you hope he shows up to even more WWE shows? Let us know in the comments below. Advertisement READ MORE: AJ Francis Makes First WWE NXT Appearance In Four Years The post AJ Francis Reacts To Surprise WWE NXT Return appeared first on Wrestlezone.
