Andrade, the charismatic lucha libre star, was officially released from WWE this past weekend, ending his second stint with the company. The 35-year-old former United States Champion was quietly moved to WWE’s alumni roster after spending roughly 18 months back with the company. This departure was not part of the usual mass roster cuts seen in WWE this year, but rather an isolated situation tied to disciplinary issues, as first reported by multiple sources including Sports Illustrated and Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer[1][4][5].

The Circumstances Behind Andrade’s WWE Release

According to The Takedown on Sports Illustrated, Andrade’s release was the result of disciplinary action stemming from at least one violation of WWE’s wellness policy during his recent tenure with the company. While specifics remain undisclosed, it has been confirmed that Andrade faced suspension without pay connected to the wellness violation[4]. The Wrestling Observer Radio and Fightful have also corroborated that Andrade was sent home from an August taping of Friday Night SmackDown, where he was escorted out of the building as a consequence of the disciplinary issues[1][4].

Unlike other 2025 WWE departures that were largely budget-driven or related to broader roster trimming, this was clearly a distinct decision taken solely regarding Andrade’s conduct. Sources note WWE reportedly tried reaching Andrade for several weeks post-incident but found it difficult as he had traveled to South America, posing communication challenges[1].

Impact on WWE Storylines and Andrade’s Final Matches

Andrade’s release disrupted creative plans that involved him teaming with Rey Fenix. The duo had been slated to challenge the Wyatt Sicks for the WWE Tag Team Championships at WWE’s Clash in Paris event. Instead, due to Andrade’s sudden absence, The Street Profits replaced them in the title match slot[2][4]. His last televised match occurred at WWE SummerSlam 2025, where he participated in a high-profile Six Pack Tables, Ladders, and Chairs Match for the tag titles.

This abrupt change in WWE’s plans underscores the unexpected nature of his firing and how it caught the creative team off guard.

Andrade’s Perspective: Social Media Response

Despite the circumstances of his release, Andrade publicly acknowledged WWE on social media, thanking the company for the opportunity during his time back in the promotion. On X (formerly Twitter), he posted a simple but heartfelt “Thank you WWE!!!” along with a handwritten photo expressing gratitude. This came roughly two days after news broke about his release[2][3].

Sources close to Andrade reveal that while the termination was not mutual and was more of a WWE decision, Andrade has shown grace in his public communications, which many interpret as leaving the door open for future opportunities in wrestling or beyond[2].

Background: Andrade’s WWE Journey and Prior Wellness Violations

Andrade initially debuted in WWE years ago but left the company in 2021 after creative frustrations. He was then signed by AEW, where rumors circulated that he engineered a backstage altercation with Sammy Guevara to secure a release and return to WWE. His return was officially announced at the 2024 Royal Rumble. However, Andrade’s history with WWE’s wellness policy has been troubled. He had a prior 30-day suspension in January 2020 for a wellness policy violation which was publicly disclosed then[2][4].

His second violation during this recent contract was not made public until post-release, highlighting WWE’s normally secretive handling of disciplinary matters[4]. Yet, this pattern has contributed to the company’s decision to sever ties, despite Andrade’s undeniable in-ring talents.

What Lies Ahead for Andrade?

Industry insiders and wrestling journalists speculate that Andrade’s future remains fluid but promising. Having proven his star power in both WWE and AEW, Andrade could return to the independent circuit, explore opportunities in AEW again, or potentially sign with international promotions that value his lucha libre heritage.

According to a WWE insider who spoke under anonymity, “While Andrade’s recent issues led to his departure, his talent and fan following are undeniable. He has key bridges still intact in the wrestling world and could make an impactful return elsewhere soon.”[1]

Furthermore, given his recent social media professionalism and the wrestling market’s appetite for established stars, clubs and promotions worldwide may express interest in adding ‘El Ídolo’ to their rosters soon.

Summary

• Andrade was released from WWE in September 2025 due to disciplinary issues linked to at least one wellness policy violation, confirmed by Sports Illustrated and Wrestling Observer[1][4].
• He was suspended without pay, sent home during a SmackDown taping, and escorted from the building following this suspension[1][4].
• Creative plans involving a WWE Tag Team Championship match with Rey Fenix were scrapped following Andrade’s release[2][4].
• Andrade publicly thanked WWE on social media post-release, despite the decision not being mutual[2][3].
• His prior history with WWE includes a 2020 wellness policy suspension and a stint in AEW before his 2024 WWE return[2][4].
• Wrestling insiders suggest Andrade has viable options outside WWE, with his next moves highly anticipated[1].

As the wrestling community processes Andrade’s sudden exit, fans and industry experts alike will watch closely to see where ‘El Ídolo’ lands next on his professional journey.

This article draws on reports from WWE.com, Sports Illustrated, Wrestling Observer, Fightful, and other expert sources to provide a comprehensive update on Andrade’s WWE release and its implications.