Jin Tala, known in the wrestling world as Leigh Laurel, has publicly addressed her recent release from WWE, joining a wave of talent departures that also included wrestlers such as Wes Lee and Steve Turner. Tala’s comments, shared via a heartfelt post on Instagram, reflect her passion for professional wrestling and her journey within the industry.
In her statement, Tala described her time with WWE as transformative. She noted that before her wrestling career, she struggled to find her true passion. “With contract in hand, I kept thinking ‘What if… what if this was what I’ve been missing?’” Tala wrote. This introspection led her to embrace the physical and psychological aspects of wrestling, which she found deeply fulfilling.
Tala emphasized her commitment to the craft, stating, “I can say with a hand on my heart that I didn’t falter.” She acknowledged her weaknesses but expressed a determination to improve, dedicating herself fully to training and absorbing knowledge from coaches and experienced wrestlers. Over the past month, she felt significant progress, breaking through personal barriers and showcasing her skills in recent matches.
She reflected on her last match, a loss to Tyra Mae Steel at an NXT house show in Gainesville, Florida, on October 4, 2023. Earlier, she had also faced Kali Armstrong in July, where she lost a chance to compete for the EVOLVE Women’s Championship. Tala’s experiences in these matches were milestones in her growth as a performer, despite the outcomes.
Tala’s release is part of a broader strategy within WWE. Bryan Alvarez, a noted wrestling commentator, revealed on social media that recent roster cuts were not driven by budgetary constraints. Instead, they aimed to streamline talent spots, allowing new wrestlers to enter the system. He explained that WWE, with over 130 talents currently in its ranks, routinely assesses progress, releasing those who may not fit the long-term vision for the main roster.
As she contemplates her next steps, Tala remains undeterred. She concluded her post with a strong message of resilience, stating, “Jin Tala may be no more. But Leigh Laurel has always been a fighter.” Her story exemplifies the challenges and uncertainties many wrestlers face in the competitive world of professional wrestling.
Tala’s journey reflects the personal and professional struggles many athletes endure, and her commitment to her craft suggests she will continue to seek opportunities in the industry, regardless of her current status.
