On Saturday, WWE updated its website, moving former United States Champion Andrade to the alumni section. This change signaled a significant shift in his relationship with the company. Reports indicate that Andrade did not leave voluntarily; the decision was made by WWE, not tied to budget cuts but rather disciplinary issues.
Dave Meltzer from The Wrestling Observer shared that Andrade’s release stemmed from a wellness policy violation. Although the details of this violation remain unclear, it’s known that he was suspended without pay due to it. Under WWE’s policies, talent can be penalized for failing to meet wellness standards, which often involve drug testing. Further complicating the situation, Andrade had previously faced a similar suspension in January 2020.
In recent weeks, Andrade’s absence from WWE events raised eyebrows. He reportedly was not present backstage at SmackDown and even had to leave a taping in August. This dismissal was linked to his suspension and affected creative plans for a tag team partnership with Rey Fenix.
Interestingly, since WWE’s merger with TKO in 2023, the company has not publicly disclosed any details about wellness policy violations. This lack of transparency makes it difficult to know if Andrade’s case is an isolated incident or part of a broader pattern.
Andrade’s wrestling journey has seen ups and downs. After a brief tenure in WWE, he moved to AEW, where he also faced disciplinary action due to a backstage incident. His return to WWE in 2024 for the Royal Rumble sparked excitement, but this latest news has left many fans disappointed.
In the world of wrestling, personal issues can impact careers significantly. Expert opinions suggest that strict wellness policies are necessary for ensuring the health and safety of wrestlers. Health professionals highlight that maintaining physical and mental well-being is crucial, especially for those in high-pressure environments like wrestling.
With Andrade’s recent challenges, fans and critics alike are left contemplating not only his future but also the implications of WWE’s policies on its talent. As the landscape of professional wrestling evolves, keeping an eye on both talent and operational changes within major organizations can provide valuable insights into the sport’s future.
For ongoing updates on WWE, AEW, and wrestler careers, keep an eye on trusted sources like Wrestling Observer and specialist outlets.
