Dakota Kai WWE Contract: Rumored expiry, dates and more

Dakota Kai, born Cheree Crowley on May 6, 1988, in Auckland, New Zealand, has been a prominent figure in WWE’s women’s division over the last few years. Known for her agility and in-ring prowess, Kai’s journey with WWE has seen various highs and lows, including contract negotiations, releases, and triumphant returns. As of February 2025, discussions about her contract status have resurfaced, prompting fans to seek clarity on her current standing within the company.

Dakota Kai’s WWE Tenure and Contract History

Kai’s initial association with WWE began in December 2016 when she signed a developmental contract and debuted in the inaugural Mae Young Classic in 2017. Over the years, she became a staple in NXT, WWE’s developmental brand, showcasing her talent and earning a dedicated fanbase.

In April 2022, Kai was released from her WWE contract. Reports indicated that her contract was originally set to expire in April 2023, but she had expressed intentions not to renew, leading to her early release.

However, in a surprising turn of events, Kai made a return to WWE at SummerSlam in July 2022. She re-signed with the company and aligned herself with Bayley and IYO SKY (formerly Io Shirai) to form the faction known as Damage CTRL. This return marked a significant moment in her career, transitioning from NXT to the main roster on Raw.

Contract Details and Speculated Expiry

While WWE typically keeps contract specifics confidential, certain details about Kai’s agreements have surfaced over time. Her re-signing in July 2022 suggests a standard multi-year contract, which in WWE often ranges between three to five years. This would tentatively place her contract expiry between mid-2025 and mid-2027. However, without official confirmation, these dates remain speculative.

It’s also worth noting that Kai’s previous contract was set to expire in April 2023 before her release in 2022. This history indicates that contract durations can vary based on negotiations and company decisions.

Recent Developments and Injury Status

In May 2023, during a match on SmackDown, Kai suffered a torn ACL, a significant injury that required surgical intervention and an extended period away from in-ring competition. During her recovery, she maintained a presence on WWE programming, often accompanying her Damage CTRL teammates in a managerial capacity. Her resilience and dedication to the faction kept her connected with fans during this challenging period.

Kai made her in-ring return in March 2024, rejoining her Damage CTRL partners and resuming active competition. Her return was met with enthusiasm from the WWE Universe, eager to see her back in action. This comeback not only highlighted her physical recovery but also underscored her importance within the women’s division.

Future Prospects and Speculations

As discussions about Kai’s contract status emerge in early 2025, several factors come into play. Her recent return from injury, combined with her integral role in Damage CTRL, suggests that WWE values her contributions. If her contract is indeed approaching its conclusion, it’s plausible that WWE would seek to negotiate an extension to retain her talents.

However, the wrestling industry is dynamic, and talent movements are not uncommon. Kai’s previous release and subsequent return demonstrate the unpredictability of contract negotiations. Fans and industry insiders will undoubtedly keep a close eye on official announcements regarding her future with WWE.

Dakota Kai’s journey in WWE has been marked by perseverance, adaptability, and a steadfast commitment to her craft. While official details about her current contract remain undisclosed, her trajectory suggests a promising future within the company. As the landscape of WWE continues to evolve, Kai’s role and contributions will undoubtedly remain a focal point in the women’s division.

Note: The information provided is based on available data as of February 20, 2025, and may be subject to change with future developments.