Andrade, the former NXT and United States Champion, has officially parted ways with WWE, confirmed by his move to the company’s alumni section on WWE.com and reporting from reliable wrestling news sources. His release marks the end of a recent comeback run that began at the 2024 Royal Rumble after a notable stint in All Elite Wrestling (AEW)[1][2].

According to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful, Andrade’s departure was quietly confirmed following the discovery of his profile shift on WWE’s website to the alumni page—a section reserved for former WWE talent. This change was first spotted by an eagle-eyed wrestling fan on social media before being verified by the industry insider[1]. As of now, neither Andrade nor WWE has made an official public statement regarding the terms or reasons surrounding his departure[1].

A Return That Lasted Less Than a Year

After requesting and receiving his release from WWE in March 2021, Andrade moved to AEW, where he spent roughly two and a half years competing until late 2023. He made a surprise return to WWE on January 27, 2024, entering the men’s Royal Rumble match and signaling high expectations for a renewed career chapter[1][2]. During his return, Andrade was primarily featured on the SmackDown brand, where he formed a tag team partnership with Rey Fenix, another star with a strong AAA and AEW background[1].

Andrade’s last in-ring WWE appearance came at WWE SummerSlam 2025 on August 3, where he teamed with Fenix in a highly competitive six-team Tables, Ladders, and Chairs (TLC) match for the WWE Tag Team Championships. Despite the match being a highlight of the second night of SummerSlam, Andrade has not been seen on WWE programming since, fueling growing speculation about his status with the company[2][3].

Background: Andrade’s WWE Career and Legacy

Andrade first began working with WWE in 2015, where he was initially known as Andrade “Cien” Almas in the NXT developmental system. He quickly established himself as a top star by winning the NXT Championship and solidifying a reputation for in-ring skill and charisma[1][2]. Upon promotion to WWE’s main roster, Andrade captured the United States Championship, highlighting his value to the company.

His initial departure in 2021 was reportedly on his request, seeking new opportunities that eventually led him to AEW, where he continued to refine his craft and gain a broader fanbase. The WWE organization appeared eager to bring him back in 2024, possibly capitalizing on their partnership with Mexican promotion AAA, hoping to revitalize Andrade’s career[1][2].

Industry and Backstage Perspectives

Insiders close to WWE have hinted that Andrade’s release was part of a broader talent reshuffle following SummerSlam. According to a WWE insider who spoke to Post Wrestling, “WWE is always evaluating its roster to ensure fresh stories and opportunities for emerging talents. Andrade’s release aligns with those strategic adjustments, and it’s not necessarily a reflection of his abilities or commitment.”[1]

The wrestling community is left pondering Andrade’s future. Given his young age of 35 and proven ability to succeed internationally, many speculate he could explore returning to AEW, compete in Mexico’s AAA, or even pursue other independent opportunities. Sources close to Andrade suggest he is evaluating his next move cautiously, focusing on finding a promotion where he can perform at his best and regain the momentum he had pre-WWE return[2].

What’s Next for Andrade?

While WWE has not disclosed specific details behind Andrade’s exit, industry observers note that his absence on television post-SummerSlam and website status update confirm the split. With the wrestling landscape evolving and multiple global promotions offering competitive platforms, Andrade’s future in pro wrestling appears poised for an intriguing new chapter.

Fans and analysts will closely watch announcements from Andrade himself or spoilers regarding his next destination. His skill set, star power, and bilingual appeal make him a highly valued performer who could impact any that he joins.

For now, WWE has officially moved Andrade to the alumni page as confirmed by WWE.com and reported by Fightful and Post Wrestling, signaling the end of his current WWE tenure[1][2][4]. This news emerges quietly but surely amid a busy season of cuts and contracts reshaping the WWE roster.

This article will be updated as new information becomes available about Andrade’s post-WWE plans or official statements from relevant parties.