Nixon Newell and Miranda Alize are facing serious backlash after walking out of AEW Collision, and the fallout isn't doing their careers any favors -- especially Newell's.
According to The Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the independent scene isn't exactly welcoming her with open arms following the incident, and now she's being accused of having "WWE brain rot."
Newell and Alize were originally scheduled to appear at Collision, but both walked out before their match, sparking immediate criticism. While some believe the controversy might bring Newell more attention and bookings, others in the indie world strongly disagree.
"One person involved with the independent scene said they didn't believe this publicity would help get Newell bookings even though this became kind of the talk in wrestling and some indie promoters think that controversy will help sell tickets and they aren't just two random women."
Another promoter wasn't nearly as diplomatic and outright blasted Newell's reputation and demands:
"Wasn't it just the other week you were talking about wrestlers who had leverage not wanting to do business? How about wrestlers with zero leverage? Nixon isn't gonna get work out of this. She wasn't getting work before and was crying about it. She asks way too much money and sells zero tickets on her name alone. Usual WWE brain rot."
Reports now suggest that AEW has no intention of bringing either Newell or Alize back, with sources indicating that the company viewed their conduct as deeply unprofessional. It's a rough spot for Newell, whose post-WWE run hasn't gained much traction even before this controversy.
The term "WWE brain rot" is being used to describe what indie promoters see as an entitled attitude some former WWE talents allegedly carry when transitioning to the independent scene -- expecting higher pay, special treatment, or name-value drawing power they no longer hold.
For Newell, this walkout might have done more harm than good. With promoters already hesitant and AEW apparently cutting ties, she now faces the difficult challenge of rebuilding trust and momentum.
Do you think Nixon Newell can turn this around, or has she done lasting damage to her career? Sound off in the comments and let us know where you stand on this situation.