In a surprising twist that’s more shocking than a wrestling heel turn, Bobby Steveson, known to WWE fans as Damon Kemp, announced his departure from WWE on Monday. This 25-year-old NXT star took to X (formerly Twitter) to drop the bombshell.
Steveson’s heartfelt message read, “As of today, I am no longer under contract with WWE. Forever grateful for the people I met and the experiences I’ve had.” Talk about going out with grace!
Contrary to the dramatic expectations of some fans, Steveson wasn’t unceremoniously dumped by WWE. According to an exclusive from Fightful Select, WWE simply opted not to renew his contract, which was initially a multi-year deal inked in the summer of 2021. No dramatic backstage fallout, no Vince McMahon power moves—just a straightforward non-renewal. Bobby was given a heads-up, ensuring no surprise exits here.
Steveson, who first burst onto the NXT scene in 2021 as part of Roderick Strong’s Diamond Mine, more recently joined the No Quarter Catch Crew. His last in-ring appearance was on June 25, where he faced off against Tavion Heights and took an “initiation match” loss. Heights has since stepped into Kemp’s boots, joining forces with Charlie Dempsey and Myles Borne.
Interestingly, Steveson’s exit doesn’t seem to echo his brother Gable’s more turbulent WWE journey. Bobby Steveson, unlike his controversial Olympian sibling, left a positive impression on WWE coaches, fans, and backstage officials alike. In fact, while Gable Steveson was released back in May, Bobby’s tenure with WWE was marked by solid performances and professional conduct.