WWE Star Quietly Fired After Months Off TV

Another WWE talent has parted ways with the company, and this one flew under the radar.

Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select reports that Duke Hudson was released from WWE in January, but the news is only surfacing now.

Hudson, who had been a part of NXT since signing with WWE in 2019, last wrestled at an NXT house show in November 2024. Since then, he had been absent from television, leading some fans to speculate about his status. Now, it’s confirmed—he’s done with WWE.

Hudson went through several character reinventions during his time in NXT, from his early days as Brendan Vink to becoming Duke Hudson, a cocky poker player. His biggest run came as a key member of Chase U, where he worked alongside Andre Chase and Thea Hail, helping the faction grow into one of NXT’s most entertaining acts. Despite being a consistent presence on TV, WWE ultimately decided to cut ties with him, though no official reason has been given for his release.

With WWE never publicly announcing his departure, Hudson now joins a growing list of wrestlers who have been let go quietly, without a farewell match or acknowledgment on TV.

Ringside News will continue to provide additional information on why he was fired and where he will land next as that information becomes available.

The big question now is: what’s next for Duke Hudson? Do you think he’ll show up in AEW, TNA, or NJPW, or should WWE have used him better? Drop your thoughts in the comments.