Brinley Reece, recognized for her performances on WWE’s NXT and Evolve brands, has declared her unexpected departure from the company as she turns her focus to personal health concerns. The WWE NXT star departure was confirmed on Sunday through Reece’s Instagram, where she candidly explained her decision to leave following ongoing health issues and a major injury.
Reece Shares Personal Reasons for Leaving
Reece, also known as Breanna Ruggiero outside the ring, made her announcement public after three years with WWE. In a series of emotional statements, she opened up about the factors behind her exit, including a difficult recovery from surgery and the impact on her overall well-being. Her words reflected a resolve to prioritize her future and self-care above her wrestling career.
“After three years, I am officially closing my chapter Wrestling at WWE,”
Reece wrote. — Brinley Reece, WWE NXT Star
“This decision came after navigating personal health challenges and a serious injury that required surgery last year. It wasn’t an easy choice, but it was a necessary one — choosing my health, my body, and my future first.”
— Brinley Reece, WWE NXT Star
A New Direction, Not an End
Despite stepping away from in-ring competition, Reece emphasized that this move marks a significant shift in her life, not a finale. She conveyed pride in all she accomplished during her WWE run and optimism for what lies ahead, signaling that her journey is being redirected but not concluded.
“This isn’t an ending — it’s a redirection,”
Reece stated. — Brinley Reece, WWE NXT Star
“I’m proud of everything I gave to this chapter, and even more excited for what’s ahead.”
— Brinley Reece, WWE NXT Star
WWE Career Highlights and Achievements
Reece joined WWE as a member of the Fall 2022 Rookie Class after she impressed officials during a tryout in Nashville coinciding with SummerSlam. With a strong background in acrobatics and tumbling, she distinguished herself at the Performance Center through her skill and agility. Her on-screen debut for NXT came on October 17, 2023, when she replaced Jakara Jackson in the Women’s NXT Breakout Tournament.
Over her tenure, Reece participated in notable matches such as the January 2024 No. 1 contender’s battle royal and a challenging gauntlet match in August 2024. Her last major storyline was in late 2024 when she and Dion Lennox faced off against Ashante Thee Adonis and Karmen Petrovic in a mixed tag team rivalry. Afterward, she transitioned to Evolve Wrestling, debuting in March 2025 with a win over Masyn Holiday.
Legacy and Future Prospects
Although her time with WWE and NXT concluded sooner than many anticipated, Reece leaves the wrestling scene with widespread respect for her commitment, athleticism, and ability to overcome adversity. With her next steps firmly rooted in maintaining her health and determined to move forward on her own terms, Reece’s outlook remains hopeful as new opportunities arise outside the squared circle.
