WWE cuts Tonga Loa and JC Mateo in latest roster shake-up
WWE has released Tonga Loa and JC Mateo as part of recent budget cuts. The departures leave their stable, MFT, with fewer members and raise questions about the group’s future. Both wrestlers now face new opportunities outside the company. Tonga Loa joined WWE in early 2024, while JC Mateo—formerly known as Jeff Cobb—signed in May 2025. Their releases come amid wider cost-cutting measures, which also saw long-time stars Xavier Woods and Kofi Kingston leave the promotion.
Tonga Loa had mostly worked alongside Tama Tonga in tag team matches, leaving his singles career untested. JC Mateo, however, was expected to become a major singles competitor before his departure. Their exits leave Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, and Talla Tonga as the only remaining members of MFT.
After the news broke, Solo Sikoa paid tribute to both wrestlers on Instagram. Meanwhile, JC Mateo and Tonga Loa could attract interest from other promotions once their non-compete clauses expire. Mateo, in particular, has prior experience with NJPW and AEW, where he may now explore a return. The releases leave WWE’s plans for MFT uncertain. Both wrestlers will likely weigh offers from rival promotions once free to compete. Their next moves could reshape their careers beyond WWE.
