Wrestling star Xavier Woods has announced his departure from WWE in an emotional farewell posted on X, reflecting on his 16-year tenure with the company and expressing gratitude for memorable moments.
Woods, who will now use his real name Austin Creed professionally, recalled significant milestones and relationships formed during his career.
“For the past 16 years, WWE has been my home. It’s where I grew up, found myself, failed, learned, and got to live out things the younger version of me could only dream about,” Woods wrote.
He shared memories of his early days, entering WWE’s developmental territory FCW eager to prove his value.
“When I first walked into FCW, I just wanted a chance to prove I belonged and to bring something different to professional wrestling. That chance became a life full of moments I’ll carry with me forever — WrestleMania, championships, King of the Ring, arenas around the world, and the gift of connecting with all of you by being myself,” he said.
Woods highlighted his bond with New Day members Kofi Kingston and Big E as a cherished part of his WWE experience.
“The New Day gave me a bond with @TrueKofi and @WWEBigE that I’ll cherish for life. You believed in us, even when our ideas were wild, and because of that, we got to show people that being unapologetically yourself is a strength,” he stated.
He also expressed pride in the creation of UpUpDownDown, the gaming channel that became a symbol of joy, friendship and authenticity.
“UpUpDownDown became another piece of that same mission: a place for joy, friendship, and humanity. I’m so thankful to everyone, past and present, who helped build it brick by brick,” Woods added.
Woods acknowledged the efforts of those working behind the scenes at WWE, thanking the locker room, producers, trainers, crew and props department for their contributions.
“To the locker room, producers, trainers, crew, camera teams, ring crew, everyone behind the scenes, and the props department – thank you. WWE has the most special and hardest working props department that you’ll ever find. Love you guys and none of this happens without you,” he said.
Concluding his message, Woods reflected on the support received throughout his career and his decision to transition to using Austin Creed.
“And to everyone who has been part of this ride: thank you for believing in me. Thank you for letting me be Xavier Woods. Thank you for giving me the confidence… to walk away as Austin Creed,” he wrote.