The wrestling world received surprising news this week as Simone Johnson, daughter of global superstar Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, officially confirmed her departure from WWE. The 24-year-old performer, who captivated audiences under the ring name Ava, revealed that her appearance on this week's NXT broadcast marked her final moment with the company, closing a chapter that began in 2020.
Johnson's journey in professional wrestling began with tremendous anticipation, given her iconic lineage. When she signed with WWE in early 2020, expectations soared among fans eager to see if she would follow in her father's legendary footsteps. However, her path would prove unique, carving out a distinct identity separate from The Rock's shadow. She spent her initial years immersed in WWE's developmental system, honing her craft at small Florida house shows known within the industry as the "Coconut Loop" circuit. This grassroots experience provided essential foundational training away from the bright lights of television.
Her on-screen debut as Ava Raine came as part of an intriguing faction that immediately established her presence in NXT's storytelling landscape. Aligning with Joe Gacy's Schism stable, Johnson positioned herself as a compelling managerial personality rather than an in-ring competitor. This role showcased her ability to command attention through mic skills and character work, essential components for success in modern wrestling. During her tenure with Schism, she appeared regularly on NXT programming, developing her persona and learning the intricacies of televised performance.
While many second-generation wrestlers feel pressure to become championship-caliber athletes, Johnson's career trajectory took a different turn. She competed only sporadically in actual matches, with her sole singles competition resulting in a loss to Ivy Nile at the Heatwave event in 2023. This limited in-ring resume didn't diminish her value to the organization; instead, it highlighted WWE's evolving approach to talent utilization, where charisma and authority can outweigh athletic performance.
The pivotal moment in Johnson's WWE career arrived later in 2023 when she transitioned into a backstage role that would ultimately place her at the center of NXT's power structure. Serving as Shawn Michaels' assistant, she gained invaluable insight into the operational side of running a wrestling brand. This mentorship under one of the industry's most respected figures proved transformative, as she gradually assumed more on-screen responsibilities as an authority figure. By 2024, WWE officially recognized her contributions by bestowing the prestigious title of NXT General Manager, making her one of the youngest individuals to hold such a position in company history.
In this capacity, Johnson became the face of NXT management, appearing weekly to make matches, settle disputes, and drive storylines forward. Her presence provided continuity and stability for the brand, which has undergone significant evolution since its inception. Fans grew accustomed to seeing her open shows, confront rebellious superstars, and maintain order in WWE's developmental territory. The role demanded a different skill set than wrestling—executive presence, quick thinking, and the ability to project authority while remaining relatable.
The unexpected conclusion to her WWE tenure came through a personal Instagram post that caught many off guard. Johnson shared a heartfelt message with her followers, stating: "This past Tuesday was my last appearance on NXT & subsequently WWE. Thank you to all who have cheered, watched, and supported me through my journey. While my decision to not renew my contract was very difficult, it's also new turning point in my life. It has been an honor & a privilege to be Ava." The wording suggests a definitive break not just from WWE, but potentially from the wrestling industry altogether, though she left room for interpretation about her future endeavors.
The timing of her announcement raised eyebrows within the wrestling community, as she had appeared on the January 27 NXT episode in her standard General Manager capacity, giving no indication that it would be her final appearance. This lack of on-screen farewell or storyline explanation presents a creative challenge for the NXT writing team, who must now address the sudden absence of their on-screen authority figure. Typically, wrestling promotions build angles around such departures, but Johnson's abrupt exit may require a different approach.
WWE responded to inquiries about Johnson's departure with a gracious official statement that underscored her contributions. The company told Fightful Select: "WWE thanks and applauds Simone Garcia Johnson for her stellar work as Ava and beyond. Her passion, dedication, and impact were felt across the entire NXT and WWE community. We wish her the very best in all future endeavors." This warm sendoff indicates an amicable separation and recognizes her influence beyond just her on-screen character, referencing her work ethic and positive presence within the organization.
The departure of Simone Johnson represents more than just a talent leaving WWE; it symbolizes the end of a fascinating experiment in nepotism versus meritocracy. While her famous surname undoubtedly opened doors, she worked diligently to prove her value through four years of development, character evolution, and ultimately, leadership. Her journey from tentative newcomer to confident authority figure demonstrated growth that resonated with many viewers who watched her mature on their screens.
Industry insiders speculate about the factors behind her decision. The demanding schedule of WWE life, constant travel, and pressure of living up to the Johnson name may have contributed to her choice. Additionally, the modern wrestling landscape offers numerous opportunities outside traditional promotions, including acting, entrepreneurship, and media ventures—fields where her family connections and personal brand could thrive. At 24, she possesses the youth and flexibility to explore completely different career paths while still maintaining ties to her wrestling experience.
For NXT, her absence creates a significant void. The General Manager role served as a crucial narrative device, providing logical reasoning for matchmaking and storyline progression. Shawn Michaels and the creative team must now decide whether to replace her with another on-screen authority figure or pivot to a different format. The brand recently celebrated its latest developmental success stories, and losing a recognizable face could temporarily disrupt the viewing experience for loyal fans.
Johnson's legacy in WWE will likely be remembered for its uniqueness. She didn't chase championships or deliver classic matches, but she helped modernize the authority figure role for a new generation. Her comfort with social media, understanding of contemporary culture, and ability to connect with younger audiences made her an asset to NXT's demographic targeting. She proved that value in wrestling extends beyond physical performance, encompassing character work, representation, and behind-the-scenes professionalism.
As the wrestling world processes this news, attention turns to what Simone Johnson will pursue next. Whether she follows her father into Hollywood, launches a business venture, or surprises everyone by returning to wrestling elsewhere, her next move will generate significant interest. For now, she deserves appreciation for forging her own path in one of the world's most scrutinized industries, handling immense pressure with grace, and leaving on her own terms. The story of Ava may have concluded, but the story of Simone Johnson is just entering its next exciting chapter.