The hype surrounding WWE 2K25 continues to build as more details emerge about its debuting modes, innovative features, and the highly anticipated roster reveal.  While the developers strive to create a balanced mix of current Superstars and legendary wrestlers to appeal to fans of all generations, some notable absences from the previous installment have sparked discussion.

The recently unveiled WWE 2K25 roster boasts an impressive 300+ playable characters, including wrestling legends, unique gimmicks, and current Raw, SmackDown, and NXT talent.  This marks the largest roster in the franchise's history. However, roster turnover is inevitable, and several Superstars from WWE 2K24 are notably absent from the latest iteration, whether due to company departures or contract expirations.

A Reddit user recently compiled a list of Superstars featured in WWE 2K24 who are missing from the WWE 2K25 roster reveal.  The absence of characters from the poorly received WWE 2K24 Pat McAfee DLC Pack was largely expected.  Departures like Edge and Bobby Lashley, who have left the company, are also unsurprising.  However, the omissions of Robert Roode, Big Boss Man, Jerry Lawler, and Ted DiBiase have raised eyebrows.

Robert Roode's absence is particularly perplexing, as he remains employed by WWE, albeit in a producer role.  This has sparked speculation about potential contract issues following his transition from an active performer.  Some fans are hoping that the WWE and TNA partnership might lead to the inclusion of a TNA-era Bobby Roode character as DLC.

The absence of Boss Man, Lawler, and DiBiase is likely due to expired Legends contracts. While surprising given their recent one-off appearances for WWE, their removal isn't entirely unexpected.  It's possible these characters could return as DLC or MyFaction additions, similar to the updated versions of DDP, The Iron Sheik, Mr. Perfect, and Lex Luger included in WWE 2K24's WCW DLC Pack.