WWE Hall of Famer Booker T recently addressed Elayna Black’s decision to pause her wrestling career to focus on her mental health. Known professionally as Cora Jade in NXT, Black’s hiatus has prompted Booker to offer advice on maintaining momentum during challenging times. Discussing her situation on his Hall of Fame podcast, Booker emphasized the difficulty of stepping away from wrestling after early success and urged her to remain resilient.
If I could give her any advice, I’d say stay on the horse, man. And keep it going, because you got momentum right now,
Booker said.
Out of sight is out of mind. Time off is going to be your worst enemy trying to get back in this business.
He stressed the importance of continuing the grind despite setbacks, sharing his perspective on enduring tough periods in a wrestling career.
When once those calluses all heal up and you try to get back… if I was Elayna Black, I would say, damn it, I’m gonna just keep grinding until I see that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel for me. That’s the way I see it.
Elayna Black’s Decision to Step Away From Wrestling
Elayna Black announced last week that she would take a break from wrestling following her release from WWE in May 2025. She revealed her plan to prioritize mental health and use the remainder of the year to reflect on her future in the industry. This move has been met with support from fans and colleagues who recognize the importance of addressing well-being amid the pressures of professional wrestling.
Cora Jade wrestling mental health hiatus highlights broader discussions about the challenges wrestlers face behind the scenes, with Black’s openness shedding light on the significance of mental health care in sports entertainment.
Implications for Black’s Wrestling Career
Booker T’s comments underline the tension between taking necessary rest and the risk of losing traction in a highly competitive field. His advice suggests that prolonged absence can make returning more difficult, reinforcing the value of persistence. This perspective resonates within wrestling culture, where momentum is critical to success.
As fans and industry watchers await Black’s next moves, her break may serve as a catalyst for more open conversations regarding mental health in WWE and professional wrestling at large.
