Carmella’s WWE Contract Expires Amid Recovery From Injury

Carmella, whose real name is Leah Van Dale, has been a staple of WWE programming since signing in 2013. Unfortuneately, she's been out of action for some time, dealing with an injury after complications from child birth. She rose to prominence through WWE’s NXT brand, then found great success the main roster. Over the years, she captured multiple championships, including the SmackDown Women’s Championship, the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship, and the 24/7 Championship.

She married WWE announcer Corey Graves, but left to have a baby. Following complications during childbirth, she suffered a serious foot injury that she is still trying to recover from. Her contract expiration is likely less about WWE not having a use for her and more about the fact she can't wrestle. Amid ongoing health issues, it's important to note WWE has not released her. Instead, it's likely that Carmella just isn't under contract while she recovers. If and when she can return, WWE will likely offer her another deal.

Carmella Provided An Update On Her Situation

Carmella provided an update on her condition via Instagram in early February. She revealed that she has been undergoing extensive medical evaluations and physical therapy to address lingering issues. She wrote:

"EMGs, MRIs, spine specialists, neurologists, physical therapy... Just a few of the things I've been up to lately trying to get this foot better. No one prepares you for the injuries you can sustain while giving birth. No one talks about it, but here I am, living it 14 months later."

Her struggles have been linked to herniated discs pressing on a nerve, which has significantly affected her mobility. Due to this, she has been unable to return to the ring. As for being paid during her injury leave, that's another situation that doesn't have clarity at this time.

The timing of Carmella’s contract expiration is unfortunate, but traditionally, WWE superstars would have their deals extended to account for time away. With Carmella unable to go to another company to wrestle and with her contract already expiring, it seems logical to assume WWE simply decided to wait and have the conversation about her future when the time comes to talk getting involved again.

At this point, it's fair to say that her future in wrestling remains uncertain.