Priscilla Kelly, better known by her ring name Gigi Dolin, opened up about her recent release from WWE during an appearance on Saraya’s Rulebreakers podcast. After being let go in May, Dolin revealed that her time in WWE’s NXT brand had been difficult but was ending on a high note. The WWE release reaction came as a shock since she was reportedly enjoying her career more than ever before, particularly after forming a successful tag team and competing on larger stages.
Kelly recounted the struggles she faced adapting to WWE’s strict schedule after years as an independent wrestler. She also discussed dealing with mental health challenges during her WWE tenure, including a phase of depression triggered by the demanding environment and an injury sustained during training. Despite these hardships, her final months in WWE were marked by creative fulfillment and strong camaraderie with fellow wrestlers.
From Struggles to Sisterhood: Finding Joy in NXT’s Tag Team Scene
Dolin described how teaming with Shotzi and Tatum Paxley revitalized her passion for wrestling. The trio quickly developed a bond and chemistry that translated into their performances, sparking some of the best moments in her WWE career. She highlighted this period as “the best sisterhood in wrestling” she had ever experienced, emphasizing how much they enjoyed their time together both in and out of the ring.
Her excitement grew as she and Tatum began participating in title matches and receiving opportunities on major WWE programs such as Raw and NXT’s TNA crossover events. This progress gave Dolin a sense of hope and stability, as she believed her career was finally taking off. However, her optimism was shattered unexpectedly when WWE informed her they would be cancelling her contract shortly after WrestleMania week.
“When I came back from my injury, I got to team with Shotzi, which we wanted to do for a while. They put us with Tatum and as soon as we went out there together, it immediately clicked. We all had chemistry. It looked good, it felt good, we had fun. Before we went out and when we came back, we were still laughing and having fun. That was the first time that I genuinely experienced the best sisterhood in wrestling. There had been bits of that through my career, but this was different. We all felt it and we all loved what we were doing. Shotzi was super thrilled. Towards the end, they had me and Tatum, we were having title matches and making appearances on Raw and TNA at the same time. I was like, ‘I’m getting called up. This is it. This feels right. I’m happy doing this. This is awesome.’ I was the happiest I had ever been. Then, out of the blue, a week or two after Mania week, ‘we’re canceling your contract.’” —Priscilla Kelly
The Mystery Behind Her Release and Unanswered Questions
Though Dolin developed close relationships with some of the Performance Center coaches, she revealed she never received a clear explanation for her release. She reached out to them hoping for feedback to grow and improve but was met with uncertainty, suggesting the decision came from higher WWE executives. The lack of answers left her feeling disappointed and confused, especially since many NXT colleagues were reportedly upset by the news.
“I didn’t get an answer. I was very close with some of the coaches at the Performance Center. Some of them reached out to me and I was like, ‘I want somebody to tell me what it was so I can learn from it and make adjustments so this doesn’t happen or I can grow.’ Nobody had an answer for me. A lot of times, I don’t think the people down at NXT know. I think it’s a higher up thing. Some of the people I was close with at NXT were pretty devastated about it.” —Priscilla Kelly
Roxanne Perez Speaks Out After Facing Online Threats
In related WWE news, wrestler Roxanne Perez shared her recent experience with online harassment in an interview with the San Antonio Express-News. Last month, she became the target of a doxxing attack on Twitter, which escalated to threatening messages that prompted WWE to enhance security at a fan meet and greet she was scheduled to attend. Perez expressed disbelief that such threats could happen to her so soon and urged people to be responsible about their online behavior.
“I’ve always heard about stories like this, but I never expected it to happen to me — especially not so soon. Situations like that are really scary. I think people need to take things like this seriously and be more mindful about what they post online, because you never know how it could affect someone else.” —Roxanne Perez
Despite the frightening ordeal, Perez praised WWE’s response to the threat, commending the company’s commitment to talent safety. As one-half of the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions with Raquel Rodriguez, she affirmed feeling secure with the organization’s protective efforts.
“WWE does a great job protecting us. No matter what’s posted or threatened online, WWE has the best security in the world. I feel very safe with them.” —Roxanne Perez
Remembering Hulk Hogan: New Japan Pro-Wrestling Issues Statement
New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) officially released a statement mourning the passing of wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, who died on July 24 at the age of 71 due to cardiac arrest. Hogan’s career was significant not only in the United States but also in Japan, where he competed with NJPW from 1980 to 1985 and returned in the early 1990s for the SWS promotion. His impact on the Japanese wrestling scene was profound, including a historic win over Antonio Inoki in the inaugural IWGP League tournament.
The NJPW statement highlighted Hogan’s ties to Japan, recalling his training under Hiro Matsuda and his victories, such as teaming with Antonio Inoki to claim the MSG Tag League in 1983. Hogan’s appearances remained notable through the years, including matches at major NJPW events like Wrestling Dontaku and the Tokyo Dome. He finally retired from Japanese competition following a match at Ultimate Crush in 2003.
The organization extended its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans, recognizing his lasting legacy inside and outside Japan.
The Wrestling Community Reacts to Hulk Hogan’s Passing
As news of Hulk Hogan’s death spread, numerous industry figures and wrestling organizations voiced their tributes and memories. WWE released an official statement honoring Hogan’s contributions to wrestling, while notable wrestlers and personalities, including Ric Flair, Triple H, and Charlotte Flair, shared heartfelt remembrances. Former wrestlers like Steve Austin and Eric Bischoff also expressed shock and sadness at the loss.
Hogan’s influence on wrestling history and pop culture was extensively acknowledged, marking the end of an era for many fans and peers alike. Coverage of his passing included plans on how WWE and other promotions would address his legacy during upcoming broadcasts and special segments.
Looking Ahead: What Comes Next for Gigi Dolin and WWE Talent
Following her WWE release, Gigi Dolin expressed optimism about future opportunities where she can continue to grow her brand and enjoy her career. Her determination to support her family and maintain a fulfilling work-life balance was evident in her statements. While her departure was unexpected and difficult, she remains hopeful about joining environments that allow creativity and fun in wrestling.
“I want to go anywhere that gives me the opportunity to keep growing my brand and get to that point where I can afford these goals of mine of taking care of my family. I just want to go where I can have fun.” —Priscilla Kelly
With WWE actively securing its talent and dealing with the challenges of public online negativity, the company continues to provide a strong platform for wrestlers like Roxanne Perez, who remain champions despite adversity. The industry also reflects on the legacies of pioneers like Hulk Hogan, balancing respect for the past with the evolving needs of current and future stars.
