It is quite an unfortunate update, as NXT Superstar Troy Donovan becomes the first wrestler to be released from WWE’s developmental brand after the 10 releases earlier in the year.
Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer reported that WWE had released Donovan on June 11 due to a policy issue. While many WWE Superstars were released from the company since the pandemic took effect from 2020 onwards due to budget cuts or creative decisions, the reason for Donovan’s release is different.
In the report, Meltzer also noted that Donovan was told he might be brought back after a year. Sean Ross Sapp from Fightful has also confirmed that Donovan has been shown the exit.
Troy Donovan signed with WWE in Mid-March and was a member of the Performance Center Class featuring Roxanne Perez, Arianna Grace, Lorenzo, and others.
Troy Donovan was one of Tony D’Angelo’s henchmen. Donovan’s last match in WWE took place on June 4, in the In Your House event, where he teamed with D’Angelo and Channing ‘Stacks’ Lorenzo to beat Legado del Fantasma.
Donovan’s in-ring debut in NXT came at the April 8 edition of NXT Level Up. Before coming to WWE, Donovan wrestled a few matches on both AEW Dark and AEW Dark Elevation. His ring name was Cole Karter back then.
Maybe Donovan will return to AEW once again but nothing is confirmed as yet. We will have to wait and watch how things pan out.
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