Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods have mutually decided to leave WWE after 16 years as part of The New Day. Their departure marks the end of one of WWE’s most iconic tag teams amid a wave of roster cuts.
The New Day debuted in 2014 and became one of the most successful tag teams in WWE history, winning 13 tag team championships. Kingston’s main roster debut was in 2008, while Woods joined in 2013. They were known for their entertaining personas and engaging matches.
Kingston and Woods were asked to restructure their contracts by WWE’s parent company TKO, which they did not accept. Both wrestlers are currently under 90-day non-compete deals following their release.
Key achievements:
- The New Day won 13 tag team championships.
- Their longest Raw tag team title reign lasted 483 days.
- Kingston is a former WWE Champion and has held four Intercontinental and three United States titles.
Xavier Woods won the King of the Ring in 2021 but has been sidelined with an injury since January. Their last championship win was at WrestleMania 41.
JC Mateo and Tonga Loa were also released from WWE as part of the roster cuts. The New Day utilized the ‘Freebird Rule’ for their tag title defenses, allowing any member to compete for the titles.
Speculation about Kingston and Woods potentially joining AEW has begun among fans and wrestlers. MJF remarked, “It’s a new day … yes it is,” while Cash Wheeler added, “Cot Damn. It’s a new day. Cot damn.” Bryan Alvarez confirmed that it was their decision to leave based on what TKO was offering for a new deal.
The New Day is over, but their legacy in professional wrestling will endure.
