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Simone Alexandra Garcia Johnson, known to wrestling fans as Ava, has officially concluded her six-year association with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), opting not to renew her contract with the sports entertainment giant. The announcement, made by Johnson herself via social media on Friday, sent ripples through the professional wrestling community, particularly given her prominent role as the General Manager of WWE’s developmental brand, NXT. Her final appearance on NXT programming earlier this week marked an unexpected close to a chapter that saw her become the company’s first-ever fourth-generation performer.
In a candid statement posted on her Instagram account, Ava expressed gratitude to her supporters while clarifying the reasons behind her departure. "This past Tuesday was my last appearance on NXT and subsequently WWE," she wrote. "Thank you to all who have cheered, watched, and supported me through my journey. While my decision to not renew my contract was very difficult, it’s also a new turning point in my life. It has been an honor and a privilege to be Ava." The post quickly garnered significant attention, reflecting her unique position within the wrestling world as the daughter of global icon Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.
WWE, in an uncharacteristic move for a departing talent, issued its own statement acknowledging Ava’s contributions. "WWE thanks and applauds Simone Garcia Johnson for her stellar work as Ava and beyond," the company’s statement read. "Her passion, dedication, and impact were felt across the entire NXT and WWE community. We wish her the very best in all future endeavors." Professional wrestling journalist Sean Ross Sapp, among others, highlighted the rarity of such a public commendation from WWE for a performer choosing not to extend their contract, underscoring the perceived value and respect for Johnson within the organization. This gesture suggests a mutual understanding and amicable parting, rather than a contentious exit often seen in the industry.
Simone Alexandra Garcia Johnson first signed with WWE in February 2020, embarking on a path that many anticipated would see her carry on a legendary family legacy. Her lineage in professional wrestling is unparalleled: she is the great-granddaughter of "High Chief" Peter Maivia, a Samoan-American wrestling pioneer; the granddaughter of Rocky "Soulman" Johnson, a WWE Hall of Famer and one half of the first African-American tag team champions; and the daughter of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, widely considered one of the greatest and most recognizable figures in professional wrestling history and global entertainment. This heritage placed immense expectations on her shoulders from the outset, positioning her as a trailblazer for future generations.
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Her journey began at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida, where she underwent rigorous training alongside a cohort of aspiring Superstars. Initial reports from coaches and fellow trainees often praised her dedication, athleticism, and willingness to learn, despite the immense pressure accompanying her surname. The developmental system, designed to hone in-ring skills, character work, and microphone proficiency, saw Johnson dedicate herself to mastering the intricacies of the craft. She spent over two years in training before making her televised debut.
Ava’s on-screen debut came in October 2022, when she was revealed as the mysterious fourth member of the villainous faction Schism, led by Joe Gacy, alongside Rip Fowler (formerly Zack Gibson) and Jagger Reid (formerly James Drake). This heel turn, aligning herself with a group dedicated to an esoteric ideology, immediately established her as a character distinct from her famous father’s heroic persona. As part of Schism, Ava wrestled a total of six televised matches, primarily in tag team contests or multi-person bouts. Her in-ring style, while still developing, showcased a methodical approach, often utilizing her physical strength and a cunning demeanor befitting her villainous alignment. Notable matches included tag team encounters against the likes of Chase U and Diamond Mine, where she demonstrated solid ring awareness and character commitment. Despite limited singles competition, her presence added a unique dynamic to Schism, enhancing their narrative arc on NXT.
However, her role within WWE evolved significantly in early 2023. Following a period where her in-ring appearances became less frequent, Ava transitioned into an authority figure role, being appointed as the General Manager of NXT. This shift saw her step away from active competition to manage the day-to-day operations and storyline developments of the brand. For the past three years, Ava has been a consistent presence on NXT television, presiding over matches, making critical announcements, and arbitrating disputes between Superstars. Her tenure as GM was characterized by a stern, no-nonsense approach, often delivering her decisions with a calm yet authoritative demeanor that solidified her position as a central figure on the brand.
As NXT General Manager, Ava oversaw a dynamic period for the brand. During her time in the role, NXT maintained its position as a vital third brand for WWE, serving as both a proving ground for future main roster talent and a standalone entity with its own dedicated fanbase. Viewership for NXT, which broadcasts weekly on the USA Network, saw fluctuations but generally held steady, averaging around 600,000-700,000 viewers during her tenure. She was instrumental in shaping numerous storylines, facilitating major rivalries, and setting the stage for NXT’s premium live events, such as Stand & Deliver, Battleground, and Deadline. Her decisions often directly impacted title pictures and helped elevate rising stars within the system. The role allowed her to develop strong communication skills and an understanding of the intricate booking process in professional wrestling.
The departure of a talent with such a high profile and unique lineage raises questions about future strategies for both Ava and WWE. For Ava, the decision not to renew her contract at this juncture suggests a desire to explore new opportunities outside the WWE ecosystem. Given her background and family connections, avenues in acting, media production, or even other entrepreneurial ventures could be plausible. Her statement about a "new turning point" hints at a broader scope for her future endeavors, potentially leveraging her established public profile beyond the wrestling ring.
For NXT, Ava’s exit creates a vacancy in a pivotal on-screen role. The General Manager position is crucial for maintaining narrative flow and providing a central authority figure. Speculation immediately turns to who might fill these shoes, with internal candidates from the existing NXT roster or even a new external figure being considered. The brand has a history of utilizing a variety of personalities in authority roles, from veteran Superstars to former champions, and the choice will undoubtedly influence the creative direction of NXT in the coming months.
The broader context of WWE’s talent development and retention policies also comes into focus. While WWE often invests heavily in legacy talents, the ultimate decision to stay or go rests with the individual. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson himself currently serves on the Board of Directors for TKO Group Holdings, the parent company of WWE and UFC, highlighting the deep ties between the Johnson family and the promotion. This familial connection, while offering unique opportunities, also comes with inherent pressures and expectations. Ava’s decision to forge her own path underscores the independent choices talents make in their careers, regardless of their background.
Industry analysts suggest that while WWE values its legacy talents, it also respects individual agency, especially for those who have spent considerable time developing within the system. "Simone has navigated a unique path, stepping into a role that combines both performance and corporate responsibility," commented one industry insider who preferred to remain anonymous. "Her decision to not renew, despite the family ties, speaks to a personal conviction and perhaps a desire to define her own career on her own terms, free from the shadow of one of the greatest entertainers of all time. It’s a bold move, but one that could open up entirely new avenues for her."
As the wrestling world processes this significant development, Ava’s six-year tenure will be remembered for her pioneering status as a fourth-generation Superstar and her impactful run as NXT General Manager. Her departure marks the end of an era for NXT and the beginning of an unwritten chapter for Simone Alexandra Garcia Johnson, as she embarks on the next phase of her professional journey.
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