Add as a preferred source on Google WWE reportedly had an official statement prepared internally regarding the departures of Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods, but as we now know, it never saw the light of day.
According to Fightful Select, the company intended to release a formal statement addressing the end of the two New Day members’ run with WWE. For reasons that remain unclear, the announcement was ultimately scrapped, though WWE is said to have privately expressed gratitude to both wrestlers.
Kingston and Woods’ departures were confirmed this past Saturday, May 2, after both men were moved to the Alumni section of WWE’s official website. According to multiple sources, the duo left the company after declining a contract restructuring and are also subject to the standard 90-day clause before appearing for another major promotion.
The situation gained even more attention on Monday when both men addressed their exits publicly. Woods thanked the fans and WWE’s backstage staff while also highlighting the impact of UpUpDownDown. Kingston followed with a lengthy message of his own, emphasizing the importance of knowing your worth and refusing to accept less than what you believe is fair.
Big E, who remains with WWE in an analyst role, responded to the farewells by calling Woods family and saying his impact on pro wrestling is “immeasurable”. As for Kingston, Big E described him as a living legend both inside and outside the ring.
The New Day was formed in 2014 by Kingston, Woods, and Big E, eventually becoming one of the greatest stables in WWE history. The duo’s next move has not been announced, though names in AEW have already publicly shown interest in the former champions.