Eddy Thorpe, formerly an NXT performer, has openly discussed the reasons behind his recent request for a WWE release, which has drawn attention to the circumstances surrounding his departure. The topic of the Eddy Thorpe WWE release request emerged after Thorpe directly addressed speculation about his career and life decisions on social media in May.
Thorpe Explains Motivation Behind Leaving WWE
In May, Eddy Thorpe, whose real name is Karl Fredericks, was listed among the group of NXT stars released by WWE. However, Thorpe has clarified that his exit was not a company directive but rather his own initiative. Responding to commentary from a fan regarding his recent political activity on X (formerly Twitter), Thorpe stated,
“I asked for my release from WWE so I could do something f*cking meaningful with my life”
—Eddy Thorpe, Former WWE/NXT Talent. This message reflects his motivation to seek personal fulfillment beyond professional wrestling within WWE.
Reflections on Tenure and Pursuing New Goals
Thorpe offered further details by sharing the journey that culminated in his decision to leave. He revealed the determination that drove him to work for WWE, having dedicated a decade to achieving his goal, but ultimately reassessed the value of staying with the organization, saying,
“I set the goal to work there. I spent a decade working for it. I got it. And in my experience I came to the conclusion I didn’t want to do it”
—Eddy Thorpe, Former WWE/NXT Talent. This reflection underscores the internal conflict between longstanding ambitions and newfound realizations.
Perceived Inequality and Creative Frustrations
Addressing further dissatisfaction, Thorpe cited a specific instance of what he considered unfair treatment compared to other talent. He explained,
“No. WWE wouldn’t let me DJ for free in Vegas mania weekend. While other talent got to make money on their outside ventures”
—Eddy Thorpe, Former WWE/NXT Talent. This hint at restrictive policies suggests growing friction between performers and management over outside opportunities.
Personal Life and Professional Background
Thorpe is currently in a relationship with Dakota Kai, who also departed WWE in May. Outside WWE, Thorpe trained extensively in the New Japan dojo system and was a known figure in NJPW. He chose not to renew his contract with NJPW in 2022, following disappointment over being left out of the G1 Climax tournament, reflecting a pattern of seeking more fulfilling opportunities.
Potential Impact and What Lies Ahead
The departure of Eddy Thorpe from WWE, particularly as a result of his own request, points to deeper struggles for creative freedom and personal meaning within the professional wrestling industry. As Thorpe explores options beyond WWE, his experiences may spark additional conversations about performer satisfaction and career autonomy. The circumstances surrounding the Eddy Thorpe WWE release request illustrate ongoing conversations among talent regarding fairness and life beyond the ring.
