Former WWE star discusses contract confusion, childbirth complications, and future plans
Summary
– Carmella reveals her WWE contract was reinstated post-maternity leave without her knowledge
– She suffered a childbirth-related nerve injury, delaying her in-ring return
– WWE chose not to renew her contract, leaving her feeling blindsided
Leah Van Dale, known to WWE fans as Carmella, has shared details about her departure from WWE following over a decade with the company. After giving birth to her son in November 2023, Van Dale faced unexpected physical and professional challenges.
During an appearance on “The Tamron Hall Show,” Van Dale explained that she was unaware WWE had reinstated her contract after a seven-week maternity leave. She stated, “I was unaware that my contract was reinstated after that, but that’s just how they chose to do it for me.”
Complicating her return, Van Dale suffered from foot drop, a nerve injury sustained during childbirth, which left her unable to walk properly for weeks. Despite ongoing communication with WWE and efforts to recover, she was informed in February that her contract would expire in 13 days and would not be renewed. No specific reason was provided, but Van Dale believes her medical clearance status played a role.
While expressing gratitude for WWE’s support during her pregnancy, Van Dale admitted that how she was released left her confused and disappointed. She has since launched “Snatch,” a platform to support women through fertility and motherhood challenges, and remains hopeful about a future return to wrestling.
