In a significant roster shakeup, WWE has officially released Andrade, following his recent move to the alumni section on WWE.com. Multiple credible sources, including Fightful Select and Sports Illustrated’s Jon Alba, have confirmed that Andrade’s departure was not a mutual decision but rather a directive from WWE higher-ups[1][2][4].
The End of Andrade’s WWE Run: Background and Timeline
Andrade’s second WWE tenure began dramatically with his surprise entry at the 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble, shortly after his contract with AEW expired. He was immediately placed on the Raw brand, showcasing his ambition to capture a world title. Initially, Andrade enjoyed a promising streak of victories over notable competitors such as Apollo Crews and Giovanni Vinci. However, despite this momentum, his run did not reach the heights many expected[2].
In the 2024 WWE Draft, Andrade was moved to SmackDown and drawn into a storyline entwined with Legado Del Fantasma. This angle involved a reunion with Zelina Vega and the Latino World Order faction, ultimately sparking feuds with Santos Escobar’s new iteration of Legado Del Fantasma. While these factions produced several multi-person tag matches at events like SummerSlam and Clash in Paris, Andrade’s singles campaigns and title ambitions never fully materialized during this period[2].
His last prominent WWE appearance was at the SummerSlam 2025 event, where he and Rey Fenix unsuccessfully challenged The Wyatt Sicks for the SmackDown Tag Team Championship in a Six-Pack TLC Match. Andrade’s absence from television since then and his removal from WWE’s active roster page fueled speculation about his status—confirmed now by official WWE updates moving him to the alumni section[1][5].
Who Made the Call? Behind the Scenes Insights on Andrade’s Release
Unlike some releases where the wrestler either requests their departure or it is deemed a joint decision, sources close to the matter emphasize that Andrade’s release was mandated by WWE’s corporate leadership rather than a personal choice[1][4]. According to insiders who spoke to Fightful Select, Andrade was not on any injury list, nor had he been conspicuously missing due to health reasons. Rather, backstage tensions and creative dissatisfaction have been identified as factors contributing to the decision[6].
An unconfirmed but widely circulated backstage rumor involves his reportedly strained relationship with certain officials and possible disagreements over his creative direction. These factors are believed to have culminated in the company concluding that parting ways was the best course[6].
Charlotte Flair’s Alleged Involvement: Separating Fact from Speculation
Social media chatter and wrestling forums have speculated on Charlotte Flair’s potential involvement in Andrade’s WWE exit. Though some fans have linked her name to backstage politics influencing the release, no concrete evidence or credible reports have emerged to substantiate such a claim[6].
Sources close to the WWE locker room suggest that while Charlotte remains a dominant locker room presence, the decision to release Andrade was primarily business-driven and related to creative priorities rather than any personal vendetta or factional power struggles[1][6]. As of now, WWE has not commented publicly on this speculation.
Contract and Future Plans: What Happens Next for Andrade?
Notably, Andrade had approximately 18 months remaining on his WWE contract at the time of his release, indicating this was not a simple contract expiration[1]. This early release means WWE likely reached a contractual settlement or invoked specific clauses to facilitate his departure.
The wrestling community is now abuzz with questions about Andrade’s future. Fans recall that after leaving WWE in 2021, Andrade spent a successful period in AEW. Despite reportedly parting on less-than-friendly terms, AEW CEO Tony Khan has expressed openness to bringing talent back if circumstances align. It remains uncertain if Andrade will re-sign with AEW or explore other options such as independent circuits or international promotions[1].
According to Fightful, Tony Khan had made Adelicate a long-term contract offer during his free agency period in late 2023, which Andrade declined—underscoring that his wrestling future remains open-ended but still very much alive[1].
Fan and Industry Reactions
Many fans have expressed disappointment with WWE’s handling of Andrade’s character during his return run, noting his considerable talent was underutilized. Industry insiders also highlight that WWE’s creative landscape in 2025 has been volatile, leading to abrupt talent releases and reshuffling.
Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful pointed out that Andrade was not just quietly let go but effectively dismissed, marking a clear end to his recent WWE chapter[2]. This could serve as a cautionary tale about the challenges of navigating WWE’s ecosystem amid intense competition and evolving storylines.
Summary
- Andrade officially released by WWE, confirmed as a decision made by company superiors, not voluntary[1][2][4].
- His WWE return began with a Royal Rumble appearance in 2024; last major match was at SummerSlam 2025[1][2].
- Backstage tensions and creative dissatisfaction reportedly influenced his release but no confirmed role for Charlotte Flair despite rumors[6].
- Contract had over a year left, suggesting WWE acted proactively in his release[1].
- Future plans are unclear, but AEW remains a possibility despite prior contract declinations[1].
According to a WWE insider who spoke off the record, “Andrade’s release caught many by surprise backstage, but the higher-ups felt the time was right. They want to focus on new talent, and unfortunately, Andrade didn’t fit into those plans anymore.”
Wrestling fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see where this talented Mexican star lands next and whether his future endeavors can reignite the spark that WWE, at times, struggled to capture during his most recent run.
For ongoing updates on Andrade and other breaking WWE news, stay tuned to trusted wrestling news platforms and official WWE communications.