Former WWE Universal Champion Braun Strowman has openly criticized WWE’s decision to release him in May 2025, calling it a “stupid business decision”, especially given how prominently his likeness continues to be used in WWE promotional materials like the SummerSlam pre-show and the WWE: Unreal Netflix docuseries[1][2][4].

The controversy reignited after a fan on X (formerly Twitter) pointed out that despite his release, Braun’s image was extensively featured in WWE’s current marketing efforts, tagging WWE Executive Triple H and questioning the logic behind cutting a talent still heavily showcased. Strowman responded bluntly: “Cause someone made a stupid business decision!!!!”[1][2][4].

Background: Braun Strowman’s WWE Tenure and Releases

Braun Strowman, known as “The Monster of all Monsters,” had two major runs with WWE. He first debuted on the main roster with a meteoric rise, capturing the WWE Universal Championship and Raw Tag Team Titles. However, in June 2021, he was unexpectedly released amid WWE’s roster cuts. After Vince McMahon’s retirement and Triple H’s creative leadership takeover, Strowman was re-signed in September 2022 but was released again on May 2, 2025, along with over 40 other superstars and personnel[1][3][5].

WWE’s release in 2025 sparked debate. According to insider reports, the release was largely financial, with WWE considering Strowman’s high salary—estimated around $1.2 million annually—as unjustified given his current role and backstage concerns about his reputation[3][5]. Sources noted that despite his undeniable presence and wrestling ability—even performing with partial paralysis in his left leg during his last WWE stint—management viewed his cost as oversized relative to how he fit into ongoing storylines and creative plans[3][5].

Strowman’s Post-Release Comments and Fan Reactions

Strowman’s frustration is not limited to just the business decision itself, but also WWE’s apparent disregard for fan sentiment. Following his release, he publicly echoed criticism that WWE “don’t care about the fans,” reflecting broader fan outcry regarding some roster cuts and booking choices recently seen within the company[1][2].

This has fueled speculation about Strowman’s future in wrestling. Fightful and Ringside News highlighted that although WWE released him, they may consider bringing him back on a part-time basis within the next six months to a year, given his continued popularity and drawing power[5].

Additionally, Strowman has been developing his brand outside WWE. He has a new eating show slated to air on the USA Network this fall, signaling his pivot to explore opportunities beyond wrestling[1].

Behind the Scenes: What Really Led to Braun’s Release?

Industry reporters and insiders, including Dave Meltzer and Ringside News, revealed multiple layers behind the scenes contributing to Strowman’s dismissal:

• Financial constraints: WWE aimed to cut costs amid broader budget tightening. Strowman’s lucrative deal became a target, especially since he lacked a “no cut clause”—a contractual protection that could have prevented his release despite cost-cutting measures[3].

• Creative disinterest: Before his 2022 return, the WWE RAW and SmackDown writing teams reportedly expressed no interest in using him, despite Triple H overriding that sentiment to bring him back. This suggests backstage creative divisions on his role[3].

• Backstage reputation: Though never publicly detailed, sources noted concerns about Strowman’s backstage behavior, which may have influenced WWE’s willingness to let him go again[3].

What’s Next for Braun Strowman?

Strowman’s outspoken nature and popularity leave many wondering if a WWE return is possible or if he’ll chase new horizons. Given the traction of his recent media projects and lingering fan support, he could forge a successful independent path, though WWE may still consider parts of his utility in special events or limited bookings[5].

Sources close to WWE believe that while the company’s financial priorities were clear, releasing a marketable star like Braun with his legacy and fanbase sends mixed signals about WWE’s long-term talent management strategy[3][5].

In summary, Braun Strowman has publicly slammed his WWE release as a “stupid business decision,” criticizing the illogical nature of cutting him while continuing to utilize his image heavily. WWE insiders suggest financial and backstage factors motivated the release, despite Strowman’s clear drawing power and previous champions status. Fans and wrestling media continue to watch closely for Strowman’s next moves, both inside and beyond the squared circle[1][2][3][4][5].