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By Andrew Ravens
Contributing Sports Writer
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WWE NXT superstar Ashante "Thee" Adonis has announced that he is no longer with the company. In a statement posted to his social media on Sunday, he confirmed that his six-year run with WWE has come to an end, as his contract was not renewed.
Adonis had been absent from NXT programming for several weeks prior to the announcement. He is now a free agent and is already accepting bookings on the independent circuit.
Ashante "Thee" Adonis Gone
In his statement, Adonis expressed gratitude for his time in WWE but was also optimistic and excited about his future. He made it clear that he believes his best work is still ahead of him.
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"After 6 unforgettable years under the WWE lights, the time has come for me to close that chapter," Adonis wrote. "I'm filled with nothing but gratitude for every opportunity, the experiences, lessons, and incredible talent I've had the chance to work with."
He continued, "Sometimes you gotta get off multiplayer and progress your story mode... You have only seen a glimpse of my true potential, and im just scratching the surface. I know that to some this can be a dark time, but stars can't shine without darkness."
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The Hit Row Saga
Ashante "Thee" Adonis's entire WWE career was defined by his membership in the popular and often tumultuous faction, Hit Row. The group, which blended hip-hop culture with in-ring talent, was one of the hottest acts in the "black and gold" era of NXT. Alongside Isaiah "Swerve" Scott, Top Dolla, and B-Fab, Adonis was a key part of the group's massive popularity.
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However, the group's journey was a rollercoaster. After a highly anticipated call-up to SmackDown in 2021, the entire faction was shockingly released just one month later. They were brought back to the company by the new creative regime in 2022, but their second run on the main roster failed to capture the magic of their NXT days. The group eventually moved back to NXT, where they have been featured in the tag team division.
A Story of Untapped Potential In WWE
While a key member of a popular group, Adonis was never given a significant opportunity to shine as a singles star in WWE. His statement about wanting to progress his "story mode" is a clear reference to his desire to break out on his own.
Now a free agent, the charismatic and athletic performer will have the chance to show the world what he can do as a solo act on the independent scene.
More WWE News:
- Released WWE Superstar Retires From Pro Wrestling
- Released WWE Star Breaks Silence On Departure
- Released WWE Star Wants To Join AEW
For more on WWE, head to Newsweek Sports.
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