While some released WWE stars have moved on in their careers, there are fans that still hope they could return one day.
From recent releases that have found a new home in TNA Wrestling to others that haven’t seen in-ring action since having been released from WWE — there are plenty of intriguing options of people who could return to NXT.
Here are eight released WWE stars that could make a return to NXT.
8. Matt & Jeff Hardy
A pair that have already made a return to NXT after being previously released from WWE are Matt & Jeff Hardy.
Appearing as a part of the crossover between NXT and TNA Wrestling, the Hardy Boyz ended up capturing the NXT Tag Team Championship from DarkState (Dion Lennox & Osiris Griffin) at NXT Showdown.
Rumored to potentially be signing with WWE after their TNA Wrestling contracts wrap up next month, the crossover for the legendary pair makes total sense.
Contributing to the rebuilding NXT tag team division, the Hardy Boyz are fan favorites that NXT and WWE fans alike get excited to see.
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7. Shayna Baszler
After being released from the main roster, Shayna Baszler reportedly spent some time during her non-compete helping out backstage at NXT.
Even being credited as a producer for a match, she would later make an on-screen appearance during NXT Homecoming.
Definitely a talent that was able to capture success on NXT but didn’t quite launch on the main roster in the same way, Baszler’s return to NXT could be great.
Given her history as a dominant women’s champion on the brand, she would be a massive force for any up-and-comer to try and topple.
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6. Dakota Kai
One of the releases that was rather surprising to WWE fans in May 2025 was Dakota Kai.
Shortly before the release, Kai was involved in a storyline with Lyra Valkyria where the duo were feuding over the inaugural women’s Intercontinental Champion.
Clearly a skilled technician, it could be that Dakota Kai could come back in the future and re-join NXT.
Able to showcase her skills in both singles and tag team competition, Dakota Kai would certainly be welcomed back by fans with open arms.
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5. Shotzi
While Shotzi Blackheart was actually not released from WWE and rather didn’t re-sign a new contract with company — she could still be a great return to the NXT brand.
After making a return to independent wrestling and already making a splash, there are plenty of things for Shotzi to still accomplish in NXT.
With solid in-ring performances and a character that fans want to root for, there could definitely be a re-invention of Shotzi in NXT that could be a re-boot for the star.
Possibly set for a role in the rebuilding TNA Wrestling Knockouts division, Shotzi could end up back on NXT through a crossover appearance.
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4. Bishop Dyer (fka Baron Corbin) & Donovan Dijak
A pair of former WWE stars have united in MLW to form a new tag team in Bishop Dyer (fka Baron Corbin) and Donovan Dijak.
Appearing in MLW as the New Skyscrapers, the pair remain the MLW Tag Team Champions after capturing the titles back in June 2025.
Potentially making for a dangerous new alliance in NXT, the pair would be re-joining NXT at a good time for a tag team duo looking to make a big impact.
With the pair equally as likely to be able to strike out in singles action as they are a threatening force together, it could be a lot of fun to see these two back in NXT.
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3. Braun Strowman
Gone but not far from fan’s minds, Braun Strowman stars in his own food and travel based series that airs on USA Network after SmackDown.
Seemingly possible to pop-up at any time for some cross promotion of the series, Strowman could definitely make a surprise and monster sized return to NXT.
While Strowman never competed on NXT TV, he had several matches at house shows under the NXT banner before eventually debuting on the main roster as a member of the Wyatt Family.
Perhaps more likely for a one-off appearance on NXT in lieu of re-signing with the company, it would still be enjoyable to see the Monster Among Men back on WWE TV.
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2. Jakara Jackson
Surprising some fans when she was released, member of the popular Meta-Four stable Jakara Jackson didn’t disappear from professional wrestling. Instead, she rebranded herself and has since signed with TNA Wrestling.
Already making a return as a part of the TNA Wrestling invasion angle on NXT, Mara Sade (fka Jakara Jackson) had a fun cameo appearance.
Participating for Team TNA in the TNA vs. NXT showdown, Sade demonstrated that her in-ring skills have remained sharp.
Recently teaming in TNA Wrestling with the Hardy Boyz, Mara Sade could be an amazing re-addition to the NXT roster in the near future.
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1. Karrion Kross & Scarlett
While both Kross and Scarlett were not released from their WWE contracts — instead with Kross electing not to sign a new one — they could still make a memorable return to NXT.
With Kross’ NXT run being far more indicative of success than his main roster spells, it could be that NXT was the perfect place for the menacing duo.
Able to serve as a perpetual crucible to new talent as they arrive in the Performance Center, the psychologically threatening nature of the Kross character could be ever present.
Constantly meddling in affairs across the card in both the men’s and women’s divisions, Karrion Kross & Scarlett could effectively run NXT — even to the chagrin of Shawn Michaels — through his emotional manipulation.
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