Andrade, the charismatic WWE superstar, has officially been released from the company, confirming a surprising end to his second WWE run that began in early 2024. WWE quietly moved him to their alumni section on WWE.com, and multiple credible sources, including Fightful Select and Sports Illustrated, have verified his departure from the Stamford-based promotion[1][2][4]. This article delves into who made the call to release Andrade, the rumored involvement of Charlotte Flair, and the potential directions for his wrestling career moving forward.

The End of Andrade’s WWE Journey

Andrade, 35, returned to WWE with a splashy surprise Royal Rumble appearance in January 2024, shortly after his exit from AEW in late 2023. During this 18-month tenure, he captured the WWE Speed Championship and frequently teamed with Rey Fenix in the tag division with moderate success[1]. His final televised WWE match took place at SummerSlam 2025 during Night 2’s Six-Pack TLC Tag Team Championship match, where he and Fenix came up short against the Wyatt Sicks[1].

Despite the significance of SummerSlam, backstage sources revealed that Andrade had been absent from WWE events and backstage interactions for nearly a month before the official news of his release broke[1][5]. His name was removed from WWE’s internal roster and shifted to the alumni page, a visual confirmation that his tenure was over[3][7].

His contract reportedly still had around 18 months remaining, indicating that WWE’s decision was not a simple non-renewal or mutual parting but a decision driven by company leadership[2][4]. Sources emphasize that budget cuts were not a factor; rather, this release stems from creative and backstage considerations. Neither Andrade nor WWE’s official spokespeople, including top executives like Triple H, have commented on this development to date[2][4].

Who Made the Call to Release Andrade?

According to insider reports and wrestling journalists, WWE higher-ups were behind the release. Fightful Select’s Sean Ross Sapp and Jon Alba of Sports Illustrated agree that Andrade’s departure was not a mutual decision but rather a management one, reportedly made without Andrade’s request. This points to a strategic choice grounded in WWE’s evolving creative direction or backstage dynamics[2][4].

One source close to WWE revealed that Andrade had begun to “go MIA,” avoiding WWE contacts for up to three weeks prior to the release announcement, hinting at possible backstage tensions or dissatisfaction on both sides[5][6]. Such behavior reportedly frustrated WWE officials, prompting them to act decisively.

Charlotte Flair’s Possible Involvement: Rumors and Reality

Speculation has emerged among fans and wrestling commentators that Charlotte Flair, a prominent SmackDown figure and top WWE star, may have played an indirect role in Andrade’s exit. Rumors surfaced on wrestling podcasts and social media suggesting tensions between Andrade and Charlotte backstage, possibly over creative differences or locker room dynamics[2].

However, credible sources have not confirmed any direct involvement by Charlotte Flair in WWE management’s decision. Industry insiders consider such stories circumstantial and caution against assigning blame without concrete evidence. According to a WWE insider speaking anonymously, “Charlotte’s name has been brought up in speculation, but there is no factual basis to link her to the decision to release Andrade”[6].

This aligns with the broader understanding that Andrade’s release was primarily a corporate decision related to booking and backstage conduct rather than personal disputes with fellow wrestlers.

What Lies Ahead for Andrade?

Now a free agent, Andrade’s future in professional wrestling is ripe for speculation. Given his previous run with AEW that ended in late 2023, many wonder if the promotion will welcome him back. While AEW reportedly extended a lucrative contract offer to Andrade last year, he declined to re-sign at the time[2]. The door remains open, but it is unclear if Andrade will return to AEW or pursue opportunities elsewhere in Mexico or international wrestling circuits.

Sources close to Andrade suggest he is evaluating his options, with a desire to maintain control over his creative direction and match involvement. His fan base and in-ring charisma make him a valuable asset for any promotion willing to invest in his potential.

Key Takeaways

• Andrade’s WWE release was initiated by WWE’s top management, not a mutual agreement or budget cut[1][2][4].
• The former United States and Speed Champion’s last match was at SummerSlam 2025 in a Six-Pack TLC Tag Team match[1].
• Backstage tensions and Andrade’s recent absence from WWE contact contributed to the decision[5][6].
• Rumors of Charlotte Flair’s involvement lack confirmation and are likely speculative[6].
• Andrade’s wrestling future remains uncertain, with AEW and international circuits as possible destinations[2].

Final Notes

Andrade’s second WWE chapter concluded sooner than many expected, closing a notable but somewhat underutilized run in sports entertainment. As he transitions out of WWE, fans and industry insiders will watch closely where “El Idolo” lands next. Meanwhile, WWE continues to shape its roster with an eye on fresh storylines and locker room atmosphere, underscoring the sometimes harsh realities behind the spotlight.

This article was compiled from verified reports on WWE.com, Fightful Select, Sports Illustrated, and multiple backstage sources as of September 14, 2025.