WWE’s post-WrestleMania roster changes have once again brought big surprises. Every year after WrestleMania, WWE refreshes its roster, and this time too, several Superstars were released. While this opens doors for new talents from WWE NXT, it also marks the end of journeys for some wrestlers.
One of the most unexpected updates came from Luca Crusifino, who didn’t just leave WWE—he also announced his retirement from professional wrestling.
Luca Crusifino Announces Retirement After WWE Exit
After being released, Luca Crusifino shared an emotional message with fans on social media. He said that being part of WWE was always his dream and that he feels thankful for every moment he spent in the company.
In his message, Crusifino:
- Thanked fans for their support, cheers, and even boos
- Appreciated his colleagues, coaches, and everyone at the Performance Center
- Confirmed that he is officially stepping away from wrestling
He also made it clear that this decision was not easy, but he believes it is the right step for his life.
His Journey in WWE NXT
Luca Crusifino was best known for being part of The D’Angelo Family, led by Tony D’Angelo.
Here’s a quick look at his WWE journey:
| Year | Highlight |
|---|---|
| 2023 | Debuted in NXT Breakout Tournament |
| 2023 | Joined The D’Angelo Family as consigliere |
| 2024–25 | Featured in NXT storylines |
| 2025 | Tried a new character on WWE Evolve |
| 2026 | Released and announced retirement |
He played a supporting but memorable role in the faction. However, after the group split, he struggled to find a strong direction in NXT.
Changes in The D’Angelo Family and NXT Scene
Even though Crusifino has left, The D’Angelo Family’s story has already moved on:
- Tony D’Angelo is now the NXT Champion
- He dropped his old mob-style character after returning in late 2025
- He won the title at NXT Stand and Deliver by defeating Joe Hendry, Ethan Page, and Ricky Saints
- Stacks is still active in NXT as part of a new faction
This shows how quickly things can change in WWE, especially during the post-WrestleMania period.
Other WWE Releases and What It Means
Along with Crusifino, several well-known names were also released:
- Kairi Sane
- Zelina Vega
- Aleister Black
These exits create space for new stars from NXT. Wrestlers like Blake Monroe and Ricky Starks could soon make their main roster debut.
Luca Crusifino’s retirement is a reminder of how unpredictable the wrestling world can be. While his time in WWE was not very long, he still managed to live his dream and connect with fans. His emotional farewell shows how much the journey meant to him.
At the same time, WWE continues to evolve, bringing in fresh talent and new stories. For fans, it’s a mix of saying goodbye to some favourites and getting excited for the next generation of Superstars.
