Former WWE United States and NXT Champion Andrade has publicly addressed his recent WWE release for the first time, posting a brief yet gracious message on social media simply stating: “Thank you WWE!!!” on September 15, 2025[2][3].

Andrade’s WWE departure came abruptly over the weekend of September 13, 2025, when WWE moved him to the alumni section of their official website, confirming his exit from the company with approximately 18 months still remaining on his contract[2][4]. Unlike earlier WWE talent cuts in 2025, Andrade’s release appears to have been an isolated circumstance, motivated by disciplinary issues rather than budget-driven roster reductions[1][4].

Disciplinary Issues and Wellness Policy Violations

Investigations by credible wrestling sources, including the Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer and The Takedown on SI, reveal that Andrade’s release was linked to disciplinary action. Specifically, Andrade faced at least one WWE Wellness Policy violation during his latest run in the company, which led to a suspension without pay[1][4]. Details remain unclear whether the violation involved a positive banned substance test or failure to provide a test sample, both of which are enforceable under WWE’s wellness program[4].

Notably, Andrade was reportedly sent home from a mid-August taping of Friday Night SmackDown and escorted out of the arena by WWE officials, indicating the severity of the disciplinary action[1][4]. This incident disrupted creative plans involving Andrade; he and Rey Fenix were originally scheduled for a tag team match against The Wyatt Sicks at WWE Clash In Paris, a booking that was eventually altered following Andrade’s suspension and termination[2][4].

Communication Breakdown and Travel to South America

WWE sources indicate that the company struggled to contact Andrade for several weeks before his release, as he was reportedly traveling in South America during the period and out of WWE’s immediate reach[1]. This lack of communication compounded WWE’s decision to release him, as backstage personnel remained unaware of his intentions and absence until the roster update moved him to alumni status[1].

A Career Marked by Ups and Downs

Andrade’s second WWE tenure began when he re-signed immediately following the 2024 Royal Rumble, after speculation that he had attempted to engineer a return by instigating a backstage altercation in AEW with Sammy Guevara[2]. His return followed a previous WWE departure in 2021 driven by creative frustrations. However, his time back was marred by the recent wellness policy violation and disciplinary issues, contrasting with earlier moments of prominence such as his United States Championship reign and NXT title run[2].

Despite his exit, Andrade’s social media response post-release suggests no lingering ill will toward WWE, as he publicly expressed gratitude toward the company for the opportunities provided during his most recent run[2][3][5].

Insider Perspectives

According to a WWE insider familiar with the situation, “Andrade’s release was not part of the usual roster trims WWE has conducted this year. The decision stemmed from backstage conduct and wellness concerns, and the company decided to part ways to maintain locker room standards.” Another source close to Andrade noted, “While Andrade’s departure was unexpected, he seems to be thankful for his time in WWE and is likely exploring the next chapter of his wrestling career.”[1][4]

Impact on WWE Programming

The sudden removal of Andrade required WWE creative to pivot quickly, especially regarding the tag team division. Plans involving Andrade and Rey Fenix were scrapped, and new storylines were crafted for the WWE Tag Team Championship picture heading into major events. Andrade’s last match for WWE took place at the 2025 SummerSlam, competing in the high-profile Six Pack Tables, Ladders, and Chairs match for tag gold—an indication of his on-screen relevance despite backstage challenges[2].

What’s Next for Andrade?

While Andrade has yet to announce his next moves officially, wrestling pundits speculate he may return to prominent spots on the independent circuit or explore opportunities with rival promotions such as AEW. Given his expressed gratitude toward WWE and relatively young age of 35, Andrade retains appeal and talent for top-tier wrestling bookings[2].

Summary

Andrade’s WWE release in September 2025 was a sudden and isolated event linked to disciplinary action and wellness policy violations. Despite the circumstances, Andrade publicly thanked WWE for his run, hinting at a professional and respectful parting of ways. WWE acknowledged the release was not part of broader roster moves and required adjustments in creative plans, especially for the tag team championship landscape. As Andrade remains a talented figure in professional wrestling, fans and insiders alike await his next career chapter.

Article based on reporting from WWE.com, PWInsider, Wrestling Observer Radio, The Takedown on SI, Fightful, and additional wrestling news sources as of September 15, 2025.