Andrade, the former United States Champion and NXT star, was quietly released by WWE in September 2025 under disciplinary circumstances, ending his second recent run with the company amid backstage controversies and behind-the-scenes issues. The unexpected dismissal has left fans and insiders wondering about Andrade’s next move and the reasons behind his WWE firing.

WWE Releases Andrade Amid Disciplinary Action

According to multiple credible reports including The Takedown on Sports Illustrated and wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer, Andrade’s WWE departure was not mutual but rather a company decision linked to disciplinary issues[1][2][3]. Sources confirmed Andrade was suspended without pay due to a violation of WWE’s wellness policy during his most recent stint. While specific details of the violation remain undisclosed, it was clarified the matter was unrelated to drugs, alcohol, or personal matters such as his previous divorce[1][3].

Backstage accounts reveal Andrade was reportedly told to leave a WWE taping, escorted from the building over the incident linked to his suspension, which also impacted planned storylines for his tag team run with Rey Fénix on SmackDown[1]. This marked a sharp turn after a solid tag team push, making the release particularly abrupt and surprising.

Andrade’s WWE Journey: Promise and Unfulfilled Potential

Andrade initially burst onto the scene with WWE’s NXT brand from 2015 to 2018, winning the NXT Championship and delivering memorable matches, notably his high-profile bout against Johnny Gargano at TakeOver: Philadelphia — widely acclaimed as one of the best NXT matches ever[2]. He also captured the United States Championship during his first WWE run, showing considerable promise.

However, Andrade’s tenure has been marked by setbacks. After requesting his release in 2021 and departing to AEW, where injuries and backstage tensions hampered his success, he returned to WWE in 2024 with noticeable momentum as a singles competitor before transitioning into tag team competition with Rey Fénix[2][4].

Was Andrade Trying to Get Fired?

Dutch Mantell, a respected wrestling veteran speaking on the Story Time with Dutch Mantell podcast, claimed Andrade might have intentionally pushed to get released from WWE[4]. Mantell noted that Andrade went weeks without returning calls from WWE officials, signaling his unwillingness to continue with the company. This suggests Andrade may have “wanted to get fired,” a scenario unusual for most wrestlers who typically pursue WWE opportunities obsessively[4].

This insight offers a potential backstage explanation: Andrade’s release was not just punitive but potentially a mutual “push” by Andrade himself, reflecting dissatisfaction or conflicts within WWE.

Industry and Fan Reactions

The wrestling community has had mixed reactions, with some voices expressing disappointment over Andrade’s wasted potential. Analysts point out that despite his immense talent and multiple stints across WWE and AEW, Andrade has yet to find a stable platform to maximize his abilities[2][5].

A podcast on WrestleTalk discussed Andrade’s career, indicating that he did not bring substantial pay-per-view buy rate increases or markedly elevate programming during his runs, leading to questions about his overall impact in WWE[5]. Some insiders accuse him of backstage behavior that strained relationships, including allegedly starting fights to force his own dismissal[5].

What’s Next for Andrade?

With Andrade now categorized among WWE alumni and absent from current TV tapings or rosters, attention turns to where his career heads next. Historically, former WWE stars in Andrade’s position have pursued various paths:

• Return to AEW or other wrestling promotions: Given his previous AEW contract expired before his WWE return, returning to AEW remains a speculative option, albeit one reportedly clouded by backstage issues during his time there[2][5].

• Independent circuit or international promotions: Andrade’s high-profile and technical style could translate well on the independent scene or in places like New Japan Pro Wrestling or AAA in Mexico, potentially rejuvenating his career.

• Non-wrestling roles and media: Like many departing talents, Andrade could explore training, commentary, or acting roles within wrestling-related media.

According to sources close to Andrade, he continues to train and stay in shape, suggesting an intent to return to wrestling somewhere in the near future[4].

Other WWE News Highlights Related to Character Dynamics

In other major WWE developments, Drew McIntyre expressed respect for Damian Priest following their intense rivalry but admitted he would have preferred to chase the Undisputed WWE Championship rather than Priest himself, indicating the competitive environment atop WWE’s roster[Reference Article].

Additionally, a top WWE star criticized John Cena’s recent heel turn, calling it a “waste of time,” reflecting ongoing debates about character directions and creative booking within WWE[Reference Article].

Final Thoughts

Andrade’s firing underscores the complexities of professional wrestling careers where talent, backstage politics, wellness policies, and personal ambitions intersect. While Andrade showed flashes of brilliance and charisma, his return to WWE ended under less-than-ideal circumstances.

According to WWE insiders and trusted wrestling news outlets, Andrade’s future remains open but uncertain, with many watching closely to see if “El Ídolo” can harness his undeniable talent and navigate professional challenges to reemerge on a major stage.

This article incorporates information from The Takedown on Sports Illustrated, Wrestling Observer Radio, Dutch Mantell’s podcast, and reports from WrestleTalk[1][2][3][4][5].