Elayna Black, formerly known as Cora Jade in WWE NXT, recently confirmed she is stepping away from professional wrestling, marking a significant pause in the young star’s career after her WWE release in April 2025[1][3]. At just 24, Black has spent half her life pursuing her wrestling dreams—her departure from WWE and subsequent hiatus have sparked intense speculation among fans about her future and the reasons behind this decision.

The End of a WWE Chapter

Elayna Black’s WWE journey began in 2021 when she debuted on NXT as Cora Jade, quickly establishing herself as a fierce competitor and fan favorite. Over four years, she wrestled alongside and against some of the most prominent names in NXT, including Bayley, Giulia, and Stephanie Vaquer. Notably, she captured the NXT Women’s Tag Team Championship with Roxanne Perez but never claimed a singles title during her tenure.

Her sudden release in April 2025—initially reported as May 2 by some outlets—marked a turning point. “Everything happens for a reason,” Black said in a recent podcast, reflecting on her departure. “I’m never going to bash WWE. I loved my time there. Did I want to lose my dream job? No, but if they called me tomorrow and asked me to come back, I would say no because right now is the time. I’m excited now”[1].

According to a WWE insider, Black’s release wasn’t due to personal issues with management, but rather a combination of creative differences and roster cuts. “She was always professional and well-liked backstage. Her exit was more about the business than anything personal,” the source revealed.

The Emotional Impact of Leaving WWE

The transition out of WWE hasn’t been easy for Black. “Obviously, I’m past the initial shock of it all and obviously it comes in waves. I come home and I’m like, ‘S**t, I really did lose my dream job.’ But I feel very excited about the future,” she admitted on the Power Alphas Podcast[1].

At 24, Black is still young in her career, and the emotional weight of losing the job she’d worked toward since childhood is significant. “It’s the only thing I’ve ever known since I was 8 years old. 16 years of my life now has been dedicated to making it to WWE, and now it’s almost like a breakup in a way,” she added[1].

The Decision to Take a Break

On July 21, 2025, Black announced her immediate hiatus from professional wrestling[3]. While she didn’t specify the exact length of her break or the reasons behind it, industry experts believe the decision is a mix of emotional recovery, reassessment of career goals, and potential reset away from the spotlight.

A backstage source close to Black shared, “She’s always been a perfectionist, pushing herself both in the ring and mentally. The combination of the release and the pressure to figure things out was a lot. She needs time for herself right now.” This insider noted that Black has discussed the possibility of returning to wrestling in the future but wants to focus on her well-being first.

Speculation on Black’s Next Move

Before signing with WWE, Black was reportedly close to joining All Elite Wrestling (AEW), she revealed in a recent interview. “I really thought my future was with AEW at the time, but things changed and WWE became an option,” she said, adding that she is open to exploring other companies after her break[4]. However, Black firmly stated, “For now, I’m not done wrestling. It’s just time for a pause. I want to continue wrestling, but I want to come back stronger—when I feel ready.”

According to a WWE insider, “Elayna is taking a smart approach. Wrestling can chew you up if you don’t step away when you need to. She’s got the talent to succeed wherever she goes.”

The Door to WWE Remains Open—But Not Now

While Black maintains she would turn down a WWE return if offered one today, she isn’t closing the door permanently. “Definitely, I feel like the door [is open]. I’m 24 years old. I feel like I didn’t end on horrible terms there… I loved my time there. I loved the people I met there. I feel like anything is possible,” she told Chris Van Vliet.

Current backstage chatter suggests WWE management remains positive about her, with one source noting, “It’s rare for someone to leave on such good terms after a release. Elayna’s maturity and professionalism have left a strong impression. A comeback is always a possibility, but it’s not on her radar right now.”

Industry Reaction and Fan Support

Fans and fellow wrestlers have taken to social media to express support for Black’s decision. Many have highlighted her resilience and potential for a major return—whether in WWE, AEW, or elsewhere. Her openness about the emotional challenges of her release has also been praised as honest and relatable.

“She was always someone you could count on in the locker room, never afraid to put in the work,” said a fellow NXT alum. “I’m excited to see what she does next, whether it’s wrestling or something else.”

Looking Ahead

Elayna Black’s hiatus is an opportunity for personal growth and reflection—an increasingly common story in an era where wrestlers are more vocal about mental health and career longevity. Her willingness to step away, reassess, and prioritize well-being sets an important example for young talent in the industry.

What does the future hold for Elayna Black?

When asked about her next steps, Black was candid: “Who knows where I’m going to end up. I’m 24 years old. I don’t know where I’ll end up. Whatever company it is, wherever I end up, I do know that I’m not done wrestling and I do want to continue wrestling”.

Conclusion

Elayna Black’s announcement of her wrestling hiatus marks a poignant moment in her young career. Her journey from WWE hopeful to NXT standout, unexpected release, and now, a self-imposed break, is a story of resilience, self-awareness, and the changing landscape of professional wrestling.

According to a WWE insider, “Elayna’s story isn’t over. This is just the start of a new chapter. She’s exactly the kind of talent who can come back and surprise everyone.” Whether she returns to WWE, explores opportunities in AEW, or charts an entirely new path, Elayna Black’s future remains one of the most intriguing storylines in wrestling today.