Dakota Kai Reveals Factors Behind Her WWE Release

Dakota Kai is finally opening up about her WWE departureand the emotional toll it took on her behind the scenes. Speaking to Busted Open Radio on February 12, 2026, the former Womens Tag Team Champion revealed how her 2025 release affected her confidence and sense of identity in wrestling. While shes on the verge of a major comeback, Kai admitted that walking away from WWE was a heavy moment she needed time to recover from. She acknowledged that the corporate environment at WWE left her feeling boxed in. When asked if her release came as a surprise, Kai pointed to multiple factorsincluding injuries and a change in management. Now wrestling under the name Charlie, Kai is set to face Kris Statlander for the EVE International Championship at Wrestle Queendom 8 on March 8, 2026. Shes also expressed openness to joining AEW or TNA, making it clear that she hasnt pinned down her next movebut shes excited to explore whats next. From heartbreak to new horizons, Dakota Kai is stepping back into the ring with a new perspectiveand something to prove. Do you think Dakota Kai was held back in WWE? And where do you want to see her make her next full-time moveAEW, TNA, or Japan? Share your thoughts below and lets talk. Please credit Ringside News if you use the above transcript in your publication. G Add as a preferred source on Google