Nia Jax was one of the more surprising names who was released by WWE earlier this month following the company's Q3 earnings call.
Jax had been with WWE since 2014 and had captured the Raw Women's Championship back in 2018. She had also been a two-time Women's Tag Team Champion with Shayna Baszler.
While Jax is most likely subject to a 90-day non-compete clause, meaning we won't be seeing her back in the ring anytime soon, she has revealed what her name will be when she wrestles again.
Related: Stephanie McMahon compares WWE to Marvel Cinematic Universe
On her social media accounts, Jax has changed her name to Lina Fanene, which is a shortened version of her real name, Savelina Fanene.
Jax, who is a cousin of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, previously addressed her WWE release on Instagram, revealing she had recently asked for time off from the company.
"I usually keep my personal life private, but yesterday's reports leave me with no option but to clarify matters," Jax wrote.
"I recently took a short leave of absence from WWE for a mental health break. I've been working through so much – more than I can share – and so I took some time, with the full support of the company, to take care of myself.
Related: CM Punk reveals if he would have returned to wrestling without AEW
"Earlier this week, after WWE sent me my schedule to return to the ring for the November 15 show, I asked for an extension to my mental health break, feeling that I needed more time, and hoping I would have the ongoing support of the company I have given my all to for the past 7 years. I did not receive a response.
"The next I heard, I was being released. My vaccination status was never mentioned. I wasn't given any choices or options," Jax continued,
"It breaks my heart to be so abruptly let go, without consultation, when dealing with so much privately. I loved my career at WWE, I love the men and women I worked with, and I am going to need time to process this huge loss. I appreciate those people who have shown understanding and compassion during an incredibly difficult time."
Catch up on Raw, Smackdown, NXT and all the big WWE action via the WWE Network or BT Sport. US viewers can access the WWE Network via Peacock.
April 2024 gift ideas and deals
How to watch Dune: Part 2 at home right now
Best refurbished phones you can buy in 2024
Buy Cat Deeley's This Morning outfits
Bluey-themed family dinners launch at Gousto
Shop Sky TV, broadband and mobile
Reporter, Digital Spy
Stephanie is a writer who specialises in pro wrestling, covering everything from AEW and WWE to NJPW.
After graduating with a degree in history from Queen Mary University, London, she went on to study journalism at Birbeck University.
Outside of her journalism work Stephanie is also a YouTube content creator focusing on AEW and interviewing talent from AEW, WWE, and across the indie wrestling scene. She has also worked for Revolution Pro Wrestling as a backstage interviewer and commentator.
