Sasha Banks stepped away from WWE in 2023 and has not returned to regular wrestling
Sasha Banks, whose real name is Mercedes Kaestner-Varnado, left WWE in May 2023 after a contract dispute and has not wrestled for the company since. She did not retire from wrestling entirely, but she is not currently an active performer on WWE's main roster, NXT, or any other major wrestling promotion as of late 2024. Her status remains that of a departed performer, not an active wrestler.
The departure came after Banks and Naomi walked out during a Monday Night Raw taping in May 2023, citing creative frustration. WWE released her from her contract in June 2023. Since then, Banks has focused on other projects, including acting and entertainment work outside of professional wrestling.
Key Takeaways
- Sasha Banks left WWE in May 2023 and was released from her contract in June 2023.
- She has not signed with AEW, Impact Wrestling, or any other major wrestling promotion since her departure.
- Banks has pursued acting and entertainment opportunities outside of wrestling since leaving WWE.
- As of late 2024, there is no announced return date or new wrestling contract for Sasha Banks.
What happened between Sasha Banks and WWE
On May 16, 2023, Sasha Banks and Naomi walked out of WWE's Monday Night Raw taping in protest. Banks had been with WWE since 2013 and was a multi-time champion, but she and Naomi disagreed with the creative direction of their storylines. The two performers felt they were not being used properly and decided to leave rather than continue under those conditions.
WWE responded by suspending both performers and later releasing them from their contracts. Banks' release was finalized in June 2023. The split was public and contentious, with both sides stating their positions about the disagreement.
Has she signed with another wrestling company
As of late 2024, Sasha Banks has not signed with AEW, Impact Wrestling, New Japan Pro Wrestling, or any other major wrestling promotion. She has remained unsigned since her WWE release, which is unusual for a performer of her caliber and experience.
There has been speculation among wrestling fans and media about where she might go next, but no official announcement has been made. Banks has not indicated publicly that she plans to return to wrestling in the near future.
What Sasha Banks has been doing since leaving WWE
Since her departure from wrestling, Banks has focused on acting and entertainment projects. She has appeared in television and film work, pursuing opportunities outside of professional wrestling. This shift represents a move away from the wrestling industry entirely, at least for the time being.
Banks has also maintained a presence on social media and has spoken about her experiences in WWE, but she has not announced any wrestling-related projects or comebacks. Her public focus has been on her acting career and personal life rather than a return to the ring.
Could Sasha Banks return to wrestling
It is possible that Sasha Banks could return to wrestling at some point in the future, but there is no indication this will happen soon. Performers who leave WWE sometimes return months or years later, either to WWE or to other promotions. However, Banks has not made any statements suggesting she is working toward a wrestling return.
The wrestling industry changes constantly, and circumstances that led to her departure could shift. If Banks decided to wrestle again, she would likely have options with multiple promotions given her experience and reputation. For now, though, she appears to be pursuing other career paths.
How to stay updated on Sasha Banks' career
The most reliable way to learn about any changes in Sasha Banks' career status is to follow her official social media accounts directly. She posts updates about her projects and appearances on Instagram, Twitter, and other platforms. Official announcements about a wrestling return would likely come through these channels first.
Wrestling news websites and podcasts also cover major developments involving former WWE performers. If Banks signs with a new promotion or announces a return to wrestling, these outlets will report it. Checking these sources periodically is a way to stay informed without relying on rumors or speculation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Sasha Banks retire from wrestling?
She has not made an official retirement announcement. Banks left WWE and has not signed with another wrestling company, but she has not stated that she is permanently retired from the sport. Her status is that of an unsigned performer, not a retired one.
Will Sasha Banks ever return to WWE?
There is no announced plan for her to return to WWE. The departure and release were contentious, but wrestling history shows that performers sometimes return to WWE years after leaving. Any return would depend on both Banks and WWE deciding it was in their interest to work together again.
Can Sasha Banks wrestle for AEW or Impact?
Legally, yes — she is not under contract to WWE and could sign with any other promotion. However, she has not done so as of late 2024. If she decided to pursue wrestling again, those would be among the companies that could potentially sign her.
Where can I watch Sasha Banks' old matches?
Her WWE matches are available on Peacock, WWE's streaming service. Her earlier work in developmental and independent wrestling may be available on other platforms or through wrestling video libraries, depending on where it was filmed and who owns the rights.