Ava has officially announced her departure from WWE, confirming that she has chosen not to renew her contract with the company. The 24-year-old, real name Simone Garcia Johnson and daughter of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, shared the news in a heartfelt Instagram post following her final appearance on NXT this past Tuesday.
In her message, Ava thanked fans for their support throughout her journey and described the decision as a difficult but important turning point in her life. She wrote that it had been “an honor & a privilege” to be Ava during her time with WWE.
“This past Tuesday was my last appearance on NXT & subsequently WWE. Thank you to all who have cheered, watched, and supported me through my journey. While my decision to not renew my contract was very difficult, it’s also new turning point in my life. It has been an honor & a privilege to be Ava.”
WWE also issued a statement to Fightful Select, praising her contributions and professionalism. The company thanked Simone Garcia Johnson for her “stellar work as Ava and beyond,” highlighting her passion, dedication, and impact across NXT and the broader WWE community, while wishing her success in her future endeavors.
“WWE thanks and applauds Simone Garcia Johnson for her stellar work as Ava and beyond. Her passion, dedication, and impact were felt across the entire NXT and WWE community. We wish her the very best in all future endeavors.”
Ava joined WWE’s Performance Center six years ago and began appearing on NXT television in October 2022. Initially performing under the name Ava Raine, she was introduced as a member of The Schism faction. Her in-ring debut took place at NXT Stand & Deliver in April 2023. However, her wrestling career was brief, consisting of just six matches, with her last match occurring in August 2023.
Following the end of The Schism, Ava transitioned into a non-wrestling role and was appointed NXT General Manager in January 2024, a position she held until her exit from WWE.