Booker T expressed surprise over Ava leaving her position as WWE NXT General Manager last week, an announcement that came without warning. Known as a commentator for WWE NXT, Booker discussed the sudden change during his Hall of Fame podcast, emphasizing that Ava Leaving WWE NXT caught him off guard given her solid performance in the role.
He described Ava, The Rock’s daughter, as having done an excellent job managing NXT. Booker noted her ability to connect with younger talent and understand the needs and desires of the youth-centered show environment. This insight was seen as vital for a program focused on emerging stars.
Ava’s Abrupt Exit and Behind-the-Scenes Reactions
Co-host Brad Gilmore chimed in, agreeing that Ava’s departure appeared sudden and impacted the show’s dynamic, which focuses heavily on nurturing future talent. Booker revealed that just a week before she stepped down, no indications or rumors about her leaving were present backstage at WWE NXT, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the wrestling business.
He said,
“I left work last week and I didn’t know anything about it. I didn’t hear any rumors. I didn’t feel any rumblings or anything like that as far as hey maybe Ava’s gonna take a step back and move on into a different direction.”
– Booker T, WWE NXT Commentator
Booker added,
“I didn’t but then again this business is very very unpredictable. It really is. You could be here today and pretty much gone tomorrow. I get it. Totally understand it. Just didn’t see this one coming. But that’s the business.”
– Booker T, WWE NXT Commentator
He also reflected on the inherent uncertainty of wrestling roles, noting,
“It’s a little clause normally at the bottom page and it says card subject to change at any moment.”
– Booker T, WWE NXT Commentator
Potential Candidates to Fill the NXT Authority Position
Following Ava’s departure, discussions have started around who might take over the NXT general manager responsibilities. Brad Gilmore suggested several options and even humorously floated the idea of a temporary leader. One prominent name that emerged was Chelsea Green, whom Booker T endorsed as a strong candidate to assume the role.
Booker stated,
“I think Chelsea actually could play that role. I think she could play that role very well.”
– Booker T, WWE NXT Commentator
He also expressed a preference for a young person to step into the position, emphasizing the importance of relatable leadership for NXT’s youthful roster.
“I would like to see some young person take that mantle as well. Just because NXT is such a young group. When young people see young people doing things, it inspires them.”
– Booker T, WWE NXT Commentator
Current Status of NXT Management After Ava’s Departure
Since Ava’s exit, Robert Stone has served as the interim WWE NXT general manager. The promotion appears to be assessing the best long-term fit for the authority figure role to maintain strong leadership within the brand.
Ava’s sudden step down underscores how quickly changes can occur in WWE, especially in developmental brands like NXT that spotlight rising stars. How the promotion restructures the general manager position may influence NXT’s creative direction moving forward, impacting both the talent and audience engagement.
