In a surprising turn of events, WWE has officially released Andrade (Manuel Alfonso Andrade Oropeza) following a series of backstage incidents and a violation of the WWE Wellness Policy during his recent stint with the company. This release closes the chapter on Andrade’s second run with WWE, which began with his return at the 2024 Royal Rumble and ended abruptly just months after SummerSlam 2025.

Backstory on Andrade’s WWE Exit

Andrade’s departure was revealed when WWE moved him to their alumni section on the official website on September 13, 2025, confirming he is no longer with the company[3][5]. Contrary to earlier rumors, the release was not mutual nor related to budget cuts, but rather stemmed from disciplinary reasons, including a confirmed violation of WWE’s Wellness Policy[1][2][3].

According to industry reports, Andrade had already been suspended without pay for a Wellness Policy violation during his recent WWE run, marking at least his second documented breach, the first occurring back in January 2020 during his earlier WWE tenure when violations were still publicly disclosed[3]. The exact nature of the violation has not been publicly confirmed.

Ghosting WWE and Being Escorted Out

The backstage atmosphere prior to Andrade’s release was tense. Pwinsider and Sports Illustrated’s “The Takedown” revealed that Andrade had been absent from WWE events for nearly a month leading up to his termination and did not appear backstage at “WWE SmackDown” since early August[1][2]. Moreover, a high-level source disclosed that Andrade was ordered to leave a WWE TV taping last month and was escorted out of the building, an action directly related to his suspension[3][6].

This incident reportedly disrupted major creative plans for Andrade and his tag team partner Rey Fenix, with whom he had been competing in high-profile matches over the summer. Their partnership included two significant WWE Tag Team Championship title shots, most recently in the chaotic six-pack TLC ladder match at SummerSlam, marking Andrade’s final televised appearance for WWE[1][2][3].

Andrade’s WWE Tenure and History

Andrade initially signed with WWE in 2015, making an immediate impact by winning the NXT Championship before moving to the main roster, where he captured the United States Championship[2]. Dissatisfied with creative direction, he requested and was granted his release in 2021, after which he joined All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and rebranded as Andrade El Idolo[2].

At the end of 2023, Andrade’s AEW contract expired, paving the way for his WWE return in early 2024. Despite receiving a notable push—highlighted by participation in two Money in the Bank ladder matches, a WrestleMania 40 tag with Rey Mysterio, and his WWE Speed Championship reign—his second tenure was marred by backstage issues and inconsistent booking[1][2].

Backstage Fallout and WWE’s Position

Sources close to WWE emphasize that Andrade’s release was a company-driven decision rather than a departure by choice. Industry insiders have confirmed that Andrade was not on WWE’s injury list and that this release was isolated, not part of a broader roster downsizing or budget-related cuts[1][2]. Furthermore, WWE has not released an official statement detailing the circumstances, but multiple reported sources point towards disciplinary infractions as the cause[3][4].

In addition to the Wellness Policy violation and backstage conduct, Andrade’s abrupt exit has led to speculation regarding possible creative disagreements or behavioral concerns that impacted his standing within WWE’s locker room and management.

Future Prospects for Andrade

At present, Andrade has neither publicly commented on his release nor announced next steps in his career. Reports have already dismissed speculation tying his departure to a potential move back to Mexico’s AAA promotion[1]. Given his strong performance in AEW and his international reputation, several wrestling insiders believe Andrade could explore independent circuits or foreign promotions in the near future.

Sources close to Andrade suggest he is evaluating his options and may take time away from wrestling to reassess long-term career goals, though his proven talent and fan base could ensure a return to a major promotion eventually.

Summary

• WWE released Andrade in September 2025 due to a Wellness Policy violation and disciplinary issues[3][4].
• He was absent from WWE events for nearly a month and was escorted out of a TV taping[1][3][6].
• His release was not mutual and not related to budget cuts or contract expiration[1][2].
• Andrade’s last WWE appearance was at SummerSlam 2025 in a Tag Team Championship ladder match with Rey Fenix[2].
• This marks the end of Andrade’s second WWE run, which saw moderate success amid backstage challenges[1][2].
• He has not publicly addressed the release, and plans for his future remain unclear, with no confirmed move to AAA[1].

According to a WWE insider, “The decision to release Andrade was difficult but necessary given the circumstances. WWE prioritizes a safe and professional environment, and violations of the Wellness Policy cannot be overlooked. Andrade showed moments of brilliance, but backstage issues ultimately influenced this outcome.”

Wrestling fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see where Andrade lands next in a career marked by undeniable skill but recently overshadowed by controversy.

This article will be updated as new information emerges. Stay tuned to official WWE channels, Fightful, Wrestling Observer, and Wrestling Headlines for the latest updates on Andrade and WWE roster developments.