Kairi Sane's release from WWE was a shocker and an update has emerged on why she was let go.

Sane was among several names cut from the WWE roster as part of post-WrestleMania 42 releases. The 37-year-old wrestler was in the middle of a storyline teasing her standing up to Asuka's bullying and reuniting with Iyo Sky when the angle was abruptly dropped.

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter has reported that it was influenced by the company's belief that she wanted to eventually move back to Japan.

Dave Meltzer clarified the situation after outlets misinterpreted earlier comments on Wrestling Observer Radio as Sane requesting her release.
WWE's Decision-Making Process

According to Meltzer, WWE's belief that Sane would like to move back to Japan at some point factored into their decision to release her, despite her being actively involved in programming.

"The biggest surprise on the list was Kairi Sane (Kaori Housako, 37). She was in the middle of a program where they were teasing her eventually standing up for herself against the bullying of Asuka and getting back together as a team with Iyo Sky. But the angle was dropped cold," Meltzer wrote.

"While most were surprised, we were told part of it was the belief she wanted to move back to Japan at some point and with that knowledge it was part of the decision making."

Meltzer added that "talent is rarely told the actual reason they are let go past budgeting purposes."

Sane responded to speculation about her departure on social media earlier this week, clarifying that she did not request her release.

"What I can say is I know there's been a lot of speculation,
but I truly love this work, my teammates, and my fans.
I've never walked away, and I've given my all in everything I do.
I hope you're all doing well"



Meltzer responded on social media to clarify his reporting, stating he "didn't say she walked away" but rather that "this was the reason WWE gave for the release."