WWE officially released Andrade on September 13, 2025, in a move reportedly tied to disciplinary reasons rather than a mutual departure or performance issues, according to multiple sources within the wrestling industry. Dave Meltzer, a respected wrestling journalist host of Wrestling Observer Radio, stated the release was directly linked to a disciplinary incident that occurred during a recent WWE television taping[1][2][3].

While details remain scarce, Meltzer clarified on his podcast that the situation was serious enough for Andrade to be sent home weeks before the news broke, and that it was not related to alcohol, drugs, or any personal matters such as marriage[1]. The nature of the disciplinary issue has not been publicly disclosed, with WWE and Andrade both maintaining silence beyond official statements.

Timeline and Context of Andrade’s WWE Departure

Andrade, who last appeared at WWE’s SummerSlam event on August 3, 2025, in a highly competitive TLC Tag Team match, will end his second WWE tenure abruptly[2]. His performance alongside Rey Fenix against Dexter Lumis and Joe Gacy generated significant fan interest, making his sudden release all the more surprising.

The wrestler, whose real name is Manuel Andrade, returned to WWE in early 2024 after a stint in AEW as Andrade El Idolo. His second run was marked by notable moments, including winning the United States Championship and engaging in high-profile rivalries. However, reports suggest that the decision to part ways with Andrade was not based on creative direction or contract expiration but disciplinary grounds[1][3].

Industry and Insider Reactions

Sources close to WWE describe Andrade’s release as a definitive disciplinary measure rather than a routine roster adjustment. WWE insiders confirm that Andrade was instructed to leave WWE programming following the incident at a taping, and he had not been featured on any shows since[1]. This aligns with Meltzer’s report that Andrade was sidelined weeks before his official release.

Fightful, another authoritative wrestling news outlet, noted Andrade has also had at least one recent wellness policy violation during his most recent WWE run, though it remains unclear whether this contributed directly to his departure[2]. The WWE Wellness Policy aims to ensure the health and safety of performers, and violations can lead to suspensions or more severe consequences.

Andrade’s Response and Future Prospects

In the immediate aftermath of the release announcement, Andrade took to social media to post a brief but respectful message: “Thank you WWE!!!” on both Twitter and Instagram[2]. This statement, while not addressing the circumstances or reason for his release, showed professionalism and appreciation for his time with the company.

What lies ahead for Andrade’s wrestling career is currently speculative. Given his visible talent and international fan base, many insiders expect that Andrade could explore opportunities in other wrestling promotions, whether in AEW, Mexico’s Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre, or on the independent circuit. His previous success in AEW before returning to WWE in 2024 suggests he has viable options outside WWE.

WWE’s Disciplinary Practices and Roster Updates

This incident reflects WWE’s ongoing efforts to enforce discipline within its talent roster. Sources explain that WWE often handles disciplinary issues internally but does not hesitate to release talent if deemed necessary to maintain locker room standards. This is consistent with WWE’s publicized Wellness Policy and code of conduct.

In parallel news, top WWE talent such as Shawn Michaels are reportedly set for surgery while roster speculation continues with names like Dragon Lee and Claudio Castagnoli’s contract statuses drawing interest from fans and insiders alike[1]. These developments highlight WWE’s dynamic roster management as the company prepares for major upcoming events including WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia.

Summary

• Andrade was released by WWE on September 13, 2025, due to a disciplinary issue first reported by Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio[1][2][3].
• The disciplinary action reportedly originated from an incident at a WWE television taping several weeks prior[1].
• The release is not linked to drug or alcohol violations nor personal reasons but may relate to internal wellness policy enforcement[1][2].
• Andrade last competed at WWE SummerSlam 2025 in a TLC tag team match[2].
• Andrade expressed gratitude to WWE via social media but did not elaborate on the release details[2].
• Future career paths for Andrade remain open, with industry insiders suggesting potential moves to other wrestling promotions[2].
• WWE continues strict disciplinary enforcement as it manages roster changes leading up to WrestleMania 43[1].

According to sources close to WWE, the company remains committed to maintaining a professional environment for all performers and will take swift action when code violations occur. Andrade’s release serves as a reminder of WWE’s firm stance on discipline within its ranks[1][3]. Fans and industry watchers will be closely monitoring any announcements regarding Andrade’s next wrestling ventures and WWE’s upcoming plans for its roster.