CJ Perry, known to WWE fans as Lana, has opened up about the emotional impact of her release from the company in 2021. The former manager and in-ring competitor was let go in June of that year, ending a significant run that saw her transition from managing Rusev to becoming a featured wrestler in the women’s division. Looking back, Perry admits the news caught her completely off guard due to her position on the card at the time.
Unexpected Departure While On TV
Speaking on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Perry explained why the release was so surprising. “I was shocked. I was on television and in big, big storylines the whole time,” she said. At the time of her departure, she had been consistently featured in high-profile angles, including a tag team run with Naomi and a prominent feud with Nia Jax that saw her put through a table for nine consecutive weeks.
Relationships With Management
Perry noted that her confusion was compounded by the fact that she believed she was on good terms with upper management. “Had a great relationship with Bruce [Prichard] and Vince [McMahon], everyone. I was devastated,” she recalled. The sudden end to her contract despite these positive professional relationships left her reeling in the immediate aftermath.
Finding Gratitude In Hardship
However, Perry’s perspective has shifted in the years following her exit. She now views the experience as a vital learning opportunity. “But now looking back, I’m thankful, because that’s life, and sometimes our hardest moments is our moments that teach us,” she said. She emphasized that the difficult transition forced her to grow and adapt outside the WWE bubble.
Life Lessons Learned
Ultimately, Perry realized that tenure in the wrestling business—or life in general—is never certain. “Now looking back, I realize, not in a mean way, but nothing’s guaranteed in life. We can’t compare ourselves to other people, because we all have a different journey,” she ended. “And also, we don’t live forever, so everything has to come to an end, so let’s focus on all the great things I was able to have, versus it may be finishing too soon”.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit Insight with Chris Van Vliet with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription. You can listen to the podcast on all major streaming platforms.
