Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods have mutually agreed to leave WWE as part of a larger effort by the company to cut payroll expenses. This decision follows a significant move where WWE released 23 Superstars in one night.
Kofi Kingston, who signed with WWE in 2006, has had a storied career. He is a former WWE Champion, four-time Intercontinental Champion, and has held the Tag Team Championship title an impressive 14 times. His last televised match occurred on April 17, 2026.
Xavier Woods joined WWE in 2010 and has also enjoyed success, accumulating ten Tag Team Championship reigns along with one NXT Tag Team Championship. Both wrestlers have now been moved to the alumni section of WWE’s website.
Despite their departures, both Kingston and Woods are expected to remain in high demand outside of WWE. Kofi Kingston will still be able to wrestle under his real name but cannot use the ‘Kingston’ moniker due to trademark restrictions. Conversely, Xavier Woods will need to adopt a different identity since ‘Xavier Woods’ is owned by WWE.
Officials described their departures as mutual decisions. The exits mark the end of an era for two performers who formed a beloved partnership with Big E as part of The New Day—one of the most enduring acts in modern WWE.
Looking ahead, Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods are anticipated to pursue opportunities in rival promotions, including All Elite Wrestling (AEW). There is also a standard 90-day wait period on their releases before they can officially sign elsewhere.
