WWE Stars Were Reportedly Surprised By Andrade’s Sudden Departure

Andrade is no longer in WWE. The company released him on September 13.

Andrade’s last WWE match took place on August 3, 2025, at SummerSlam, where he teamed with Rey Fenix in a Six-Pack Tables, Ladders, and Chairs match for the WWE Tag Team Championships, which The Wyatt Sicks won to retain their belts.

Following SummerSlam, the 35-year-old star was notably absent from WWE television and live events, sparking fan speculation about an injury. However, reports clarified he was not on WWE’s internal injury list.

Instead, WWE removed Andrade from the active roster and moved his profile to the alumni section of WWE’s website, signaling the end of his tenure. Shortly after, online reports from credible sources confirmed that the ex-NXT Champion had been released in a low-key manner.

Sports Illustrated reported that his release was not mutual, nor due to budget cuts. It was also not because of contract expiration, because he still had more than 18 months left on his deal.

Bodyslam then disclosed ongoing creative frustrations between Andrade and WWE since his January 2024 return, coupled with communication issues. The former United States Champion had been unreachable backstage for several weeks, which contributed to WWE deciding to part ways with him.

Andrade Had a Quiet Departure From WWE; Not Even WWE Stars Knew About It

In a recent report, Fightful Select highlighted that his release was kept a secret, as many WWE talents were unaware and surprised that Andrade had left. The departure was an isolated incident, impacting some short-term creative plans, including a planned match against The Wyatt Sicks at WWE Clash in Paris.

Before his second WWE run, he had a significant stint in AEW from July 2021 to December 2023. Although AEW offered him a contract extension, he chose not to re-sign due to creative dissatisfaction and personal reasons.

Fightful Select reported that despite his departure being “less than ideal,” AEW president Tony Khan praised Andrade at the Worlds End show, affirming that “no bridge is truly burned” between him and AEW. This leaves the door open for Andrade’s possible return to AEW.