WWE NXT Roster Nervous About Job Security After Damon Kemp’s Departure

Damon Kemp’s WWE departure surprised a lot of fans. His contract is expiring, and this was not a release, but it has still raised concerns within the brand. Kemp was frequently on television and is the brother of Gable Steveson, who also recently left WWE to start a new career with the Buffalo Bills in the NFL. Kemp’s departure has certainly stirred some worries on the roster.

Kemp’s three-year deal, signed in August 2021, is set to expire on 8/13. He was informed this week that they would not be offering him a new deal. This decision surprised many in the company, though in hindsight, signs were visible.

The No Quarter Catch Club essentially replaced him with Tavion Heights, hinting at an angle to kick him out that never materialized. Kemp was praised for his work ethic but did not stand out significantly. He was a successful high school wrestler, winning state titles in Indiana and Minnesota. Kemp also won junior nationals at ages 14 and 15 and had a solid college wrestling career at the University of Minnesota. After his brother signed with WWE, Kemp followed, debuting two years ago and progressing well in the ring.

According to an update in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Damon Kemp’s departure from NXT has created unease among the roster. Many are now nervous about their own positions.

“The Bobby Steveson cut has led to a lot of nervousness in NXT among those whose contracts are coming due, because unlike other cuts like Dijak (main roster contract), Gable Steveson (huge contract and didn’t show much) and Gulak (the Rousey situation and other things that came up), Bobby Steveson was good in the ring for his level of experience and nobody had anything negative to say. So except for those who are clearly being pushed as future stars, many others do have the deal of if they would cut him, who else would they cut.”

We’ll have to see what happens in the future. Damon Kemp had a lot of potential, and it doesn’t appear that he wanted to leave. Still, the company decided to move on from him, making this a particularly interesting situation given his potential.

It will be interesting to see if Tony Khan picks up Damon Kemp when he is a free agent. He certainly has a lot of potential in the pro wrestling world, wherever he decides to apply his talents next.

What’s your take on Damon Kemp’s WWE NXT departure? Do you think the company is cutting too many stars with great potential? Let us know in the comments section!