Full Breakdown
The New Day Parts Ways with WWE: Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods Exit Amid Roster Overhaul
5/3/2026, 7:20:13 AM
Core Departure
Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods, the remaining active New Day members, were moved to WWE’s “Alumni” roster on May 2 2026, confirming their departure. Both are listed as having mutually agreed to part ways with WWE. Kingston’s last televised match was a loss with Grayson Waller on the April 17 SmackDown; Woods’ final appearance was a dark-match at the Royal Rumble on January 26. Their exits were announced alongside those of JC Mateo and Tonga Loa, MFT members.
Background
The New Day debuted in July 2014 and earned 13 WWE-branded tag-team title reigns, the most in company history. After Big E’s neck injury in 2022, Kingston and Woods kept the team alive, signing seven-figure multi-year extensions in late 2025 through 2030. In October 2025, WWE’s parent TKO asked them to restructure those deals; they declined, leading to their release. The decision follows a cost-cutting wave that saw over 20 superstars released after WrestleMania 42.
Timeline
- 2014 – New Day forms.
- Mar 2022 – Big E injured, leaves in-ring competition.
- Dec 2024 – Kingston and Woods turn heel.
- Oct 2025 – Sign new contracts through 2030.
- May 2026 – Decline TKO restructuring; release confirmed.
Data & Statistics
- Kingston: 1 WWE Championship, 4 Intercontinental, 3 United States, 14 tag titles.
- Woods: 10 tag titles, 2021 King of the Ring.
- New Day: 13 WWE-branded tag reigns, including a 483-day Raw record.
- Over 20 talent releases were reported between April 24 and May 2 2026.
Official Statements & Criticism
Fightful and BodySlam called the exits “mutual.” Bryan Alvarez said the duo left after rejecting TKO’s restructuring offer despite recent extensions. WWE has not commented. Critics argue the move shows WWE no longer guarantees “lifer” status, prioritizing cost-saving over veteran value.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Most sources describe the split as mutual, yet some indicate the wrestlers were asked to restructure contracts rather than leave voluntarily. WWE’s internal rationale and the exact financial terms remain undisclosed, and it is unclear if JC Mateo and Tonga Loa’s exits were also mutually agreed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We can also confirm that in the case of New Day, it was their decision to leave based on what TKO was offering for a new deal.” — Bryan Alvarez, Wrestling Observer
- “It’s a new day … yes it is.” — Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF), AEW World Champion (Instagram)
- “My boys the ….NEW….DAY. Love uces.” — The Usos, WWE Tag Team Champions (Twitter)
- “Locker room hurts on this #NewDay. All love for @AustinCreedWins and @TrueKofi,” — Damian Priest, WWE Tag Team Champion (Twitter)
What’s Next
Both athletes face a 90-day non-compete clause before appearing elsewhere. AEW and other promotions have expressed interest, while Hall of Fame eligibility and potential new ring names remain open questions as the industry adjusts to the roster reshuffle.
