Former U.S. Champion Says He Was Stuck In WWE Before AEW Move

A former United States Champion has finally revealed their true thoughts about their latest WWE stint.

Andrade returned to the Stamford promotion for his second stint in 2024 by competing in that year’s men’s Royal Rumble event.

He was immediately inserted into a storyline featuring Rey Mysterio against The Judgment Day, which led to a WrestleMania bout that ended in a victory.

He was subsequently drafted to SmackDown, where he would spend the remainder of his time before his September 2025 departure.

During his time in the company, he had formed a stunning tag team with Rey Fenix, with the pair staking its claim for the Tag Team Championship.

The duo was featured in the six-team ladder match at SummerSlam. Despite putting on a great show, Andrade and Fenix failed to capture the WWE tag team titles.

He was released from the company the following month due to numerous wellness policy violations. Shortly after his departure, he turned up in AEW, but his progression took a hit after he was accused of violating a non-compete clause by World Wrestling Entertainment.

In late December, it was reported that both parties had come to an agreement, following which the clause had been waived.

Andrade Claims He Was Stuck In WWE

While WWE fans might believe he had a good run in the company, Andrade has revealed the truth is quite the opposite.

During a recent interview with Highsports Network, the 36-year-old revealed that he felt stuck during his time in the Stamford promotion. In comparison, AEW offered more freedom.

You know, I love this business, and now with AEW kind of working with many different companies—like, you know, in WWE—I was just stuck. With AEW, you have more freedom. [H/T: Ringside News]

Andrade returned to All Elite Wrestling in January 2026.