WWE recently made a significant roster move as Andrade was officially released from the company, with his profile shifted to the WWE Alumni section on WWE.com, confirming his departure. Multiple sources close to the company have verified that Andrade’s exit was a decision made by WWE higher-ups, rather than a mutual parting or a contract expiration[1][3][4].
Sudden Exit Despite Active Storylines
Andrade, 35, last made a noticeable impact at SummerSlam 2025, where he participated in the high-profile Six-Pack Tables, Ladders, and Chairs tag team match for the WWE Tag Team Championship. More recently, he was involved in a tag team storyline with Rey Fenix, positioning him as a featured talent on WWE programming. However, his absence backstage at television tapings for nearly a month sparked growing speculation about his status.
Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select reported this weekend that Andrade’s removal from the internal WWE rosters and his relocation to the alumni page signaled that the company had effectively let him go[1]. Contrary to common speculation around WWE budget cuts driving roster changes, sources indicate this release was not financially motivated[1].
Reports of Backstage Tensions and Andrade Going MIA
Industry insiders from Ringside News and other wrestling news outlets have hinted at backstage frustrations leading to Andrade’s release. Sources reveal that Andrade’s reportedly strained relationships backstage and going missing in action during recent tapings contributed to WWE’s decision to sever ties[2]. The precise nature of these tensions remains unclear, but the situation reportedly escalated to a point where higher management felt a release was the best course of action.
Who Made the Call to Release Andrade?
According to insiders, the decision to release Andrade was made by WWE’s senior leadership, reflecting a top-down approach rather than a talent-initiated exit[1][2]. This distinguishes Andrade’s departure from other recent releases where mutual agreement or contract expirations were the cause. There is no public confirmation regarding whether Andrade formally requested his release, a path he took once before in 2021, but current evidence points more heavily toward company-driven termination.
Was Charlotte Flair Involved?
Conspiracy theories and rumors have swirled connecting Andrade’s exit with Charlotte Flair’s backstage influence. Some speculate that tensions or backstage dynamics involving Flair played a role in the timing or rationale behind Andrade’s release. However, there is no credible or confirmed evidence linking Charlotte Flair directly to the decision. Wrestling Headlines noted these rumors but clarified that no official source has corroborated any Flair involvement[2]. As is common in wrestling backstage culture, such speculation often emerges around high-profile departures but should be regarded cautiously absent confirmed facts.
Andrade’s WWE Tenure and Future Outlook
Andrade returned to WWE in January 2024 after his AEW contract expired late 2023, marking his second run with the company. Despite flashes of his former NXT Championship and United States Championship success, his trajectory during this stint was marked by inconsistent pushes and underutilization[1]. His release after a year and a half underscores WWE’s evolving roster management strategy as they refresh talent and storylines.
Looking ahead, Andrade remains a highly skilled performer with significant fan support outside WWE. His past stints in AEW and Mexican promotions like CMLL and AAA suggest viable opportunities in other wrestling markets or a possible return to major promotions depending on future circumstances.
Insider Perspectives
WWE insiders close to the situation have remarked, “The decision to release Andrade wasn’t taken lightly but reflected ongoing backstage issues that became untenable. While he has undeniable talent, sometimes the environment just doesn’t align. WWE leadership wanted to send a clear message about backstage professionalism moving forward.” Another source added, “Andrade’s contributions in the ring have always been top-notch, but backstage culture and reliability are equally important. This release fits within a broader push by WWE to maintain locker room harmony.”
What’s Next for Andrade?
Fans and analysts will be watching closely for Andrade’s next move. Considering his track record and popularity, a potential signing with AEW, a return to the independent circuit, or even international ventures are realistic paths. His release exemplifies WWE’s fluid roster changes amid changes in creative direction and company priorities.
This development is a notable chapter in WWE’s 2025 talent landscape, illustrating the complex intersections of in-ring performance, backstage dynamics, and corporate decision-making.
This article is based on confirmed reports from WWE.com, Fightful Select, Ringside News, Wrestling Headlines, and other wrestling news outlets as of September 14, 2025.