A fuser assembly includes a pressure member motion speed reduction device which slows the pressure member speed when the printed paper lead edge exits the nip. The temporarily slower pressure member speed stretches or retards the surface of the fusing member elastomer enough to assist in peeling the lead edge from the fusing member thereby allowing the rest of the paper to peel off. In one embodiment, the paper stripping or peeling process is assisted by means of one or more air knives, one or more stripping fingers, or any combination of these items.