Backstage news regarding The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) leaving WWE

On May 2nd 2026, it was reported that The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) mutually agreed to part ways with WWE. According to BodySlam+, Kofi and Woods both signed new multi-year deals with WWE last year, with each contract reportedly valued in the seven-figure range.

Bryan Alvarez of F4WOnline stated the following about what happened…

“We can also confirm that in the case of New Day, it was their decision to leave based on what TKO was offering for a new deal.”

“To be specific, New Day’s deals were not up. They were asked to restructure to TKO deals, they didn’t like the deals, so they were then granted their release.”

Fightful Select noted the following about New Day leaving the company…

“WWE sources were shocked by the departure of the New Day, with many sources assuming they’d be WWE lifers, especially Kofi Kingston. In very unsurprising news, major AEW names are already pushing for them to get signed by the company.”

In addition to AEW, multiple promotions are expected to show interest in signing Kofi and Woods once they become available.

Mike Johnson of PWInsider.com confirmed that “there is a lot of excitement in AEW circles about the potential of The New Day coming into the company.” Former AEW world champion MJF wrote “It’s a new day… yes it is” in an Instagram story.