Shotzi opens up on WWE exit: “I feel so free” amid frustration, and uncertainty

Shotzi, the former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion, has spoken candidly about her unexpected departure from WWE, describing a mix of relief, frustration, and renewed motivation for the future.Speaking on , the 33-year-old wrestler admitted that although the release came as a surprise, it also brought a long-awaited sense of clarity. “Honestly, I didn’t expect this, but I feel so free - like this weight is lifted off me,” she said.“I feel clarity and extremely motivated and excited for the future. I’m ready to get to work.”Shotzi’s WWE exit, which is expected to be finalized by July when her contract officially ends, followed months of limited activity. Her last televised match was on WWE Speed back in February, and although she was previously sidelined with an ACL injury, she confirmed that creative plans to bring her back were abruptly dropped.A planned feud with Chelsea Green never materialized, and Shotzi revealed she had been pitching ideas to management, hoping to regain momentum. “It is extremely frustrating. When they’re utilizing you, it’s the best job in the world. But when you’re in the dark, pitching things, and it just feels like no one believes in you... it’s mind-numbing and boring as hell,” she said.During WrestleMania season, she reportedly reached out to WWE’s Talent Relations team, enquiring about her future. Despite being assured that talks would take place, she claims no communication followed. This prompted her to release an emotional promo on social media showcasing her promo skills, something she says WWE rarely allowed her to do. Two days later, Shotzi received a call informing her of her release.“They told me, ‘Hey, we’ve got some bad news.’ I just said, ‘Okay, cool, later.’ It was a short conversation,” she recalled.Before her exit, Shotzi made a short return to NXT alongside Gigi Dolin and Tatum Paxley. However, plans for the trio were shelved - another abrupt end in a series of false starts.Despite the setbacks, Shotzi remains optimistic. “I’m just excited to finally go out there and kick a** on my terms,” she said. “I’m not going to put myself in catering. I’m going to get out there and wrestle my butt off.”Where she lands next is still unknown, though potential destinations could include TNA or AEW. What’s certain is that Shotzi’s next chapter will be entirely on her own terms.