5 WWE Storylines Abandoned After Shocking Superstar Releases Changed Creative Plans in 2026

Aleister Black was positioned to join Randy Orton after Elimination Chamber 2026, but Pat McAfee’s reveal as Orton’s mystery caller derailed the plan. Despite wins over Orton, Sami Zayn, and Matt Cardona, Black’s character stalled and he was released just a year after returning.

Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods turned heel and briefly aligned with Grayson Waller. They even challenged for the WWE Tag Team Championship, but their sudden release ended the storyline. Waller now competes solo, most recently against Oba Femi, leaving the faction angle unfinished.

Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley were close to turning heel after feuds with Nathan Frazer and Axiom. They were also teased as allies for Johnny Gargano. Their release ended both potential directions, leaving Gargano’s depression gimmick unresolved and scrapping a possible tag title revival.

Kofi Kingston had approached Je’Von Evans about joining The New Day, but Xavier Woods’ injury halted the storyline. With Kingston and Woods gone, Evans never got the chance to feud with or join the faction. Instead, he has moved into the Intercontinental Championship picture.

Asuka’s abusive dynamic with Kairi Sane was building toward a WrestleMania 42 payoff with IYO SKY stepping in. However, Sane’s release ended the storyline abruptly. SKY now faces Asuka at Backlash, but the match feels like a consolation compared to the scrapped WrestleMania angle.