Tracking the number of wrestlers released by WWE over recent months is challenging, as many departures go unnoticed. Each year, WWE signs numerous talents and lets go of those with similar skills, often resulting in surprise releases. While such news is always disheartening for both performers and their fans, WWE generally parts ways with those who either underperform or for whom the company has no clear plans.
However, WWE has also released some outstanding talents over the years. Stars like Kurt Angle and Bobby Lashley in the 2000s made headlines when released, and now it appears no one is truly safe. Year after year, WWE lets go of wrestlers that fans least expect to lose, yet this pattern persists.
Bray Wyatt
Bray Wyatt was a key main event figure for WWE, known for his deeply engaging and multi-layered storytelling. Fans were captivated by his character work and anticipated him to headline WWE’s main events. Despite his popularity, WWE shocked many by releasing him on July 31, 2021. A three-time world champion, Wyatt was beloved for his "demon" gimmick. Rumors suggested his release stemmed from health issues and creative disagreements, including a fallout with Vince McMahon. WWE later rehired him behind the scenes until his untimely passing in 2023.
Braun Strowman
Braun Strowman experienced two releases from WWE, both times surprising fans who saw him as a top talent. He was highly dedicated and performed despite a paralyzed portion of his left foot. The second release came due to budget cuts, with WWE feeling his pay didn’t match his output. His first release was in 2021, shortly after headlining WrestleMania and winning the Universal Championship. Strowman had openly committed himself to WWE for life, making his release more heartbreaking.
Baron Corbin
Fans were upset when WWE announced Baron Corbin’s release in November 2024. Corbin, who branded himself a "WWE lifer," began in 2012 with NXT and quickly built a strong reputation. Known for his "lone wolf" gimmick, he looked destined for stardom. Despite a Money in the Bank win in 2017 and chances at the main event, WWE repeatedly mishandled his push, including a failed cash-in and a loss to John Cena at SummerSlam. Reports suggested his release was linked to backstage conflicts over concussion discussions or John Cena’s influence. WWE’s subsequent changes to his character were not well received, and many fans believe letting him go was a mistake.
R-Truth
R-Truth recently announced on Twitter that he was leaving WWE, a move that shocked fans familiar with his long tenure. While not a main event star, R-Truth was beloved for his comedic moments and multiple title wins, including an astonishing 53 WWE 24/7 Championships. His departure is particularly surprising as he recently played a major role in John Cena’s WWE Championship storyline and featured prominently at recent events, including a Backlash match against Randy Orton and a main event with Cena.
Fan Take: These releases highlight the unpredictable nature of WWE’s talent management, reminding fans that even beloved stars are not guaranteed job security. For the sport, it signals a shifting landscape where WWE may prioritize new directions, but risks losing irreplaceable charisma and connection with the audience.
