The wrestling world knows that WWE releases can be brutal, but Nixon Newell’s candid take on experiencing the company’s cutthroat business decisions twice offers a rare glimpse into how wrestlers evolve through adversity. The former Tegan Nox recently pulled back the curtain on her dual WWE departures, revealing a stark contrast in her emotional preparation and professional mindset.
Night and Day: Two WWE Releases, Two Different Reactions
During her appearance on Busted Open Radio, Newell painted a vivid picture of how drastically different her two WWE exits felt. Her initial release blindsided her completely, leaving her reeling from the unexpected blow.
“The first time was totally out of the blue—that knocked me for six, wasn’t expecting it. I was devastated.”
The Welsh wrestler’s vulnerability in discussing that first devastating moment showcases the human side of WWE’s corporate machinery. Many wrestlers describe similar feelings when they first experience the company’s business-first approach.
Learning to Read the Room: Wrestling Business Instincts
What makes Newell’s story particularly compelling is how she developed an almost sixth sense about her standing within WWE during her second tenure. This time around, she wasn’t caught sleeping when the axe fell.
“However, the second time around, I kind of had a feeling that it was coming.”
This transformation from naive optimism to seasoned awareness represents a crucial evolution many wrestlers must undergo. Newell’s ability to read the writing on the wall demonstrates how surviving in professional wrestling requires both athletic ability and business acumen.
The Wisdom of Experience: Emotional Armor in Wrestling
Newell’s approach to her second WWE run revealed a wrestler who had learned harsh lessons about the entertainment industry’s realities. Her realistic expectations served as emotional protection against the inevitable disappointment.
“This time going in, I was a lot more realistic, which is why I was so in tune that something’s going to happen this time. I fully expected it. It was still sad, still a kick in the gut, but I was more prepared this time.”
This mature perspective showcases how veteran wrestlers develop coping mechanisms for an industry notorious for its unpredictability. The pain remained, but the preparation made all the difference.
Business First: Understanding WWE’s Corporate Reality
Perhaps most importantly, Newell’s experience taught her to separate personal worth from corporate decisions. This mindset shift represents a crucial breakthrough for any performer in WWE’s system.
“They’re going to do what they think is best for business. I need to be what is best for business. But unfortunately, something just wasn’t clicking. I don’t know if it was me, them, or a mixture of us both—I have no idea.”
Her acknowledgment that the disconnect could stem from multiple factors shows remarkable self-awareness. Rather than pointing fingers or harboring resentment, she’s embracing the uncertainty while taking responsibility for her part.
The Road Forward: Strength Through Adversity
Nixon Newell’s journey through two WWE releases illustrates how setbacks can forge stronger, more resilient performers. Her evolution from devastated rookie to seasoned professional demonstrates the mental toughness required to survive in modern wrestling. As she charts her next chapter, will her hard-earned wisdom translate into the career breakthrough that eluded her during her WWE tenures?
