Michele McCool Confirms Departure From WWE

Michelle McCool is gone from WWE after losing a Loser Leaves WWE Match to Layla last night at Extreme Rules.

The wrestler formerly known as Awesome Kong made her WWE television debut immediately following McCool's defeat and laid out the multi-time champion with an Implant Buster.

In an indication as to why she's leaving WWE, McCool revealed to WWE.com that she's endured a slew of injuries the past two months.

"My foot has been injured for two months now, broken toe, torn joint capsules, torn MCL. I took a good beating by Layla and Kharma, too. I know I'll be feeling it tonight, tomorrow and probably the next day," McCool said. "But I'll wear it with pride."

McCool was introduced to the WWE audience in 2004 as a competitor in the inaugural Diva Search. Although the former school teacher lost the competition, WWE signed her to a contract in November of that year. She had been wrestling ever since.

"I've been doing this for six years now. Love me or hate me, I hope the WWE Universe can respect that night in and night out, I've given it my all," McCool tearfully said. "This is definitely emotional, and I'm sure it'll be like that for awhile."

While McCool hopes to see her fans again, it won't be in the ring.

"Thank you for the love and the hate. Thank you for being you and for watching. Hopefully I'll see you around ? not in the ring ? but maybe someday."

She echoed similar comments on Twitter, writing, "Thx for the love guys....I know there will always be rumors, but that was it – real talk! @mslayel ....nothing but luv 4 u! Luv u all...nite!"