Wrestler Jin Tala, known as Leigh Laurel, has publicly addressed her recent release from WWE, a decision that has raised questions among fans and industry observers. Tala was among several talents, including Wes Lee and Steve Turner, who parted ways with the company in a series of roster changes.
In her recent Instagram post, Tala expressed her emotions about the release, reflecting on her journey in professional wrestling. She indicated that before joining WWE, she struggled to find her true passion, stating, “With contract in hand, I kept thinking, ‘What if… what if this was what I’ve been missing?’” This revelation marked a turning point for her career, igniting a strong commitment to wrestling.
Tala noted the importance of personal growth during her time with WWE, emphasizing her dedication to improving her skills. “I didn’t falter. I knew I had weak points, so I put in 110%, feeding myself with knowledge from my coaches and main roster talent,” she wrote. Her efforts culminated in a series of performances where she felt she finally showcased her abilities effectively.
Recent Matches and Performance Insights
Tala’s last match took place on October 4, 2023, against Tyra Mae Steel at an NXT house show in Gainesville, Florida. Prior to this, her final bout for EVOLVE was recorded in July, where she lost an opportunity for the EVOLVE Women’s Championship to Kali Armstrong. Tala’s performances were pivotal for her, as she believed they demonstrated significant development in her wrestling psychology and aggression, traits that she felt were essential for success in the professional wrestling arena.
Bryan Alvarez, a noted wrestling journalist, shared insights regarding the roster cuts on his platform, stating that the recent decisions were not driven by financial constraints but rather by a strategic move to maintain a dynamic talent pool. Alvarez highlighted that WWE currently houses over 130 talents, and cuts are made to ensure that only those who are progressing remain in the system.
A New Chapter Ahead
Reflecting on her departure, Tala acknowledged the possibility that timing might have played a crucial role in her journey. “Maybe I was just an unrecognizable name on a list, or maybe they just don’t see what I see in myself,” she mused. Despite the setback, she conveyed a strong resolve to continue pursuing her passion. “I’m not giving up. Jin Tala may be no more, but Leigh Laurel has always been a fighter,” she asserted.
As Tala looks towards the future, her commitment to wrestling remains unwavering. She has vowed to continue developing her skills and pursuing opportunities that align with her passion. Fans and supporters are keen to see how her journey unfolds in the coming months.