Cassie Lee, widely recognized by her former World Wrestling Entertainment ring name Peyton Royce, transitioned out of mainstream sports entertainment in April 2021. Since parting ways with WWE, she has balanced a growing family, entrepreneurial ventures, acting pursuits, and successful runs across multiple independent and major wrestling promotions alongside her lifelong tag team partner Jessie McKay.
Fans tracking her journey often wonder how she managed the shift from global television stardom to independent circuits and motherhood. Her post-WWE trajectory proves that athletes can carve out dynamic, independent career paths without relying on a single corporate umbrella.
Leaving WWE and Launching The IInspiration
Following her release from WWE in 2021, Lee and her tag team partner (formerly Billie Kay) reunited under their real names and new branding. They launched the comedy and variety podcast Off Her Chops, which offered fans a raw look behind the curtain of professional wrestling and daily life.
Soon after, they debuted in Impact Wrestling under the moniker The IInspiration. Making an immediate impact, they captured the Impact Knockouts World Tag Team Championship at Bound for Glory, becoming the first-ever duo to hold tag team gold in both WWE and Impact. After stepping away from that promotion in 2022 to focus on personal goals and family planning, Lee dedicated significant time to motherhood, acting classes, and training at Flatbacks Wrestling School. For another perspective on this event, check out the latest coverage from Reuters.
Expanding Horizons in AEW and International Prominence
Lee returned to active competition with renewed momentum, bringing her signature energy back to the global stage. She and McKay officially signed with All Elite Wrestling (AEW), securing a prominent spot in the tag team division. Their partnership also expanded internationally, capturing gold in Tokyo Joshi Pro-Wrestling (TJPW) as the Princess Tag Team Champions.
Balancing a demanding travel schedule with raising children requires intense discipline. Lee has been open in interviews about structuring her training around family obligations, utilizing local independent reps to stay sharp between major television appearances.
Key Milestones Since Leaving WWE
- Championship Success: Captured tag team gold in Impact Wrestling and TJPW as part of The IInspiration.
- Media Ventures: Co-hosted the popular Off Her Chops podcast, building an independent brand outside the ring.
- Skill Diversification: Invested heavily in professional acting lessons and media training to prepare for future entertainment projects.
- Major Promotion Signings: Secured high-profile contracts with AEW and Ring of Honor.
Common Misconceptions About Post-Wrestling Careers
Many casual viewers assume that leaving a major global promotion like WWE signals the end of an athlete's relevance. In reality, modern wrestlers frequently leverage their established names to build independent merchandise lines, control their booking schedules, and retain creative freedom. Lee's path demonstrates that professional independence often yields healthier work-life integration, especially for performers navigating family life.
For more details on her career stats and match history, you can view her profile on The SmackDown Hotel. Additional updates on her current athletic federation can be followed directly through All Elite Wrestling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cassie Lee's current ring name?
She performs under her birth name, Cassie Lee, dropping the Peyton Royce moniker used during her tenure in WWE.
Does she still tag with Billie Kay?
Yes, her longtime tag team partner Jessie McKay (formerly Billie Kay) remains her primary partner under the team name The IInspiration.
Which promotions has she worked for since leaving WWE?
She has competed in Impact Wrestling (now TNA), Tokyo Joshi Pro-Wrestling, Ring of Honor, and All Elite Wrestling.
Did she retire from wrestling to focus on family?
While she took brief hiatuses for maternity leave and family planning, she has consistently returned to active in-ring competition.
