Former WWE Universal Champion Braun Strowman has once again voiced his frustration over his recent release from WWE, calling it a “stupid business decision” and criticizing the company for continuing to use his image despite his departure. This latest outburst adds fuel to the ongoing friction between “The Monster Amongst Men” and WWE management just months after his shock exit in May 2025.

Strowman’s WWE Departure: Twice Cut, Twice Displeased

Braun Strowman, real name Adam Scherr, first rose to prominence in WWE after joining in 2013, eventually becoming one of the top stars with a memorable Universal Championship reign and a WrestleMania victory over Goldberg. He was surprisingly released in June 2021, only to make a comeback in September 2022 when Triple H began exerting creative control over the company’s product. However, his second WWE run lasted less than three years before management cut ties again in May 2025 amid a wave of roster shake-ups that also saw the release of notable talents like Dakota Kai and Shayna Baszler[1].

Following his release, Strowman posted a photo of himself calmly enjoying a drink, an understated response to his exit that contrasted with the shock felt by wrestling fans worldwide[2]. Yet, behind the scenes, Strowman was anything but silent. Sources close to the former star reveal that he has been outspoken in interviews and online about his belief that WWE mishandled his departure.

Public Rebuke: “Stupid Business Decision” and Criticism of WWE’s Practices

In a recent social media post, Strowman lashed out directly at WWE for continuing to use his image for promotional purposes, despite no longer being under contract. Calling his release a “stupid business decision,” he questioned the rationale behind letting go of a proven top-tier talent only to keep profiting off his likeness without compensation[3][5].

Moreover, Braun has voiced support for other wrestlers he feels were similarly mistreated. In early August 2025, he publicly sided with Karrion Kross, another released talent, accusing WWE of favoring nepotism and “ass-kissing” within its ranks rather than listening to the fans and valuing its wrestlers[4]. This candid commentary from Strowman has resonated within wrestling circles as a harsh critique of WWE’s current backstage culture and business priorities.

Insider Perspectives: Fallout of Creative and Business Decisions

According to WWE insiders and industry sources interviewed by Fightful and other wrestling media, the decision to release Strowman came down to a complex blend of budget cuts, creative direction shifts under Triple H’s regime, and perceived backstage politics[1][4]. Despite WWE’s record profits, the company has streamlined its roster, prioritizing certain newer talents and family-connected stars, which arguably left veterans like Strowman vulnerable.

A WWE insider close to the situation told Wrestling News, “Braun was and still is a huge talent. The decision to release him baffled many of us internally because it didn’t make much business sense from a star power standpoint.” This sentiment echoes Strowman’s own claim that his release was shortsighted and detrimental to WWE’s product.

What’s Next for Braun Strowman?

Despite the acrimony, Strowman remains active creatively. While focused on his personal brand, he is also involved with WWE Studios, working on a new TV series project, showing a willingness to maintain some ties despite his frustrations[4]. However, speculation runs rampant that Strowman is poised to explore opportunities outside WWE, possibly in competing wrestling promotions or Hollywood.

Strowman’s fanbase and wrestling insiders alike are closely watching whether this outspoken figure will debut in AEW or IMPACT Wrestling. Sources close to the talent suggest that he is weighing his options carefully and preparing for a major comeback later this year or early next[3].

The Broader Implications for WWE Roster Management

Braun Strowman’s release and his forthright criticism highlight a growing trend in professional wrestling: the tension between legacy stars and corporate management. WWE’s focus on cost-cutting and pushing younger or more marketable talents has sparked debate about its long-term strategy.

Analysts note that WWE’s continued use of released stars’ imagery without proper acknowledgment or compensation may lead to legal complexities and fan backlash, especially when a former top champion publicly condemns such practices. Strowman’s case could become a landmark example influencing how wrestling promotions handle talent exits in the future.

Final Thoughts

Braun Strowman’s blunt description of his WWE release as a “stupid business decision” underscores his disappointment and the wider challenges facing veteran wrestlers in the current wrestling landscape. His outspoken stance shines a spotlight on WWE’s corporate priorities and creative choices, fueling ongoing conversations about fairness, fan engagement, and wrestler treatment behind the scenes.

As one of the most dominant performers in recent WWE history, Braun’s next moves will be crucial not only for his own career but also as a bellwether for industry changes. Wrestling fans and insiders await what the “Monster Amongst Men” will do next — both in the ring and in his fight for respect and recognition in professional wrestling.

Sources: WWE.com, Fightful Wrestling, Wrestling News, Wrestletalk, Suplex Saga, Wrestling Attitude, Instagram posts by Braun Strowman