WWE developmental prospect Brayden Jesse “BJ” Ray, a featured personality on both seasons off WWE LFG , was released by the company on October 10. Ray, who gained notoriety for his confident persona and an on-screen war of words with coach Bubba Ray Dudley, announced his departure in a lengthy statement posted to his social media accounts.
In his post, Ray began by expressing gratitude for the opportunity. “First and foremost, I have to give the glory to my lord and savior Jesus Christ, who had given me this opportunity,” he wrote. “Secondly, I would like to thank Hunter, Shawn, & Matt Bloom (as well as all the @WWE coaches & staff) that were involved with this entire process. The WWE Performance Center is truly a unique place filled with many gifted individuals and unlimited support.”
Ray then reflected on the creation of his “SexyBJRay” character and the impact he believes he made in a short time. “I had a strategy upon filming WWE: NEXT GEN, to start building one of the most over exaggerated versions of myself, to give the wrestling industry a HEEL like they’ve never seen before,” Ray explained. “And quite frankly, it arguably was one of the greatest rookie runs of all time. In a matter of months, whether hate or love, I won the WWE fans over and they were extremely invested. Without ever having a debut match on live @WWENXT tv, I have become one of the most recognized names in the brand and industry.”
Regarding his release, Ray expressed disappointment while maintaining a positive outlook. “Obviously this release is a big bummer (especially when you have no idea what you could have done different), but the only option in my opinion is an attitude of gratitude,” he stated. Ray also noted he is recovering from an injury, adding, “I’m healing strong and will continue to rehab my shoulder until I’m 100%.”
He concluded his message with a defiant sign-off from his character persona. “As my good friend @TheNotoriousMMA once said, ‘I’d like to take this chance to apologize to absolutely nobody’. What you’ve seen was just the trailer… get ready for the whole movie.”
WHAT A JOURNEY 🙌
Well obviously I had to have pissed somebody off lmao!
I would like to take this moment to address you guys as Brayden Jesse Ray. First and foremost, I have to give the glory to my lord and savior Jesus Christ, who had given me this opportunity. Secondly, I… pic.twitter.com/xjYnXrd6JO
— 𝕯𝖎𝖕$𝖍𝖎𝖙 (@sexybjray) October 16, 2025
