On January 31, 2026, Simone Johnson, daughter of Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, announced her decision to retire from professional wrestling. Known by her ring name Ava Raine, the 24-year-old followed her family’s footsteps by joining WWE in 2020, becoming the fourth generation to compete in the sport. Her choice to step away marks a significant turning point in her career and life.
Reasons Behind Simone’s Departure from WWE Remain Unclear
Simone shared a heartfelt message on January 30, 2026, expressing gratitude to her fans and supporters. She revealed that her final appearance on WWE’s NXT occurred earlier that week, confirming the end of her contract and her wrestling journey.
Thank you to all who have cheered, watched, and supported me through my journey.
– Simone Johnson
She described her decision not to renew her contract as “very difficult” yet indicated it represents a new chapter in her life.
It has been an honor and a privilege to be Ava.
– Simone Johnson
The specific reasons for her retirement have not been disclosed.
The Rock Expresses Pride and Emotion Over His Daughter’s Path
Before the announcement, Dwayne Johnson spoke openly about his admiration for Simone’s efforts to carve out her own identity in wrestling. During an interview with MTV UK, he grew emotional discussing her decision to pursue the sport that shaped his life.
I’m so proud because it’s what I did, and I loved what I did, love wrestling. I grew up in wrestling. She was born into it, too, just like I was. And she said, ‘Hey, I want to do what you do.’
– Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson
He emphasized how important it was to hear Simone’s desire to forge her own path within the wrestling world.
And that’s a difference that was a big deal that I heard that.
– Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson
Reflecting on their family, The Rock recognized the role he and Simone’s mother, Dany Garcia, played in raising their daughter into an exceptional individual.
It gave me a profound sense of pride. I helped, with her mom, raise an amazing human being.
– Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson
Significance of Simone’s Retirement and What Lies Ahead
Simone Johnson’s retirement from WWE concludes a meaningful chapter in the legacy of one of wrestling’s most famous families. As the fourth generation to join WWE, her involvement carried expectations and hopes tied to the family name. Though the reasons behind her exit remain private, this transition opens new possibilities for her future beyond the ring. Fans and insiders alike will be watching closely to see what interests Simone pursues next, carrying forward the passion her father and the family instilled in her.
