Former Chase U standout reportedly refused move to developmental brand
Summary
– Riley Osborne was released due to pushback against a WWE Evolve transfer
– Reports confirm his release was not related to in-ring ability
– Osborne had been gaining popularity on NXT as part of Chase U
Riley Osborne’s departure from WWE had little to do with performance and everything to do with politics behind the curtain. According to Bryan Alvarez on Wrestling Observer Live, WWE had plans for Osborne to help build its Evolve brand, but he refused the assignment and made his stance clear. That decision appears to have played a major role in his release.
Alvarez noted that WWE expects some of its talent to assist with developmental brands like Evolve, which is being positioned as a key pipeline for future stars. Osborne reportedly rejected the move and voiced strong resistance, a decision that didn’t sit well with management.
Dave Meltzer added further context, stating Osborne was not released due to a lack of talent. He emphasized the departure had nothing to do with wrestling and even suggested AEW consider picking him up, given his upside in the ring.
Osborne signed with WWE in 2022 and found traction in NXT as part of Chase University. Teaming with Andre Chase, Duke Hudson, and Thea Hail, he stood out with crisp execution and crowd-friendly charisma.
His release underscores a rising trend: talented performers may still be cut if they push back on backstage directions, particularly when developmental expansion is a focus.
