WWE recently parted ways with Andrade El Idolo in a move that stunned fans and insiders alike. Contrary to early speculation that the departure was mutual or contract-related, new reports confirm that Andrade’s release was initiated by WWE following a wellness policy violation. This disciplinary action represents Andrade’s latest run-in with WWE’s strict protocols, marking a dramatic end to his second stint with the company.
Disciplinary Action Led to Andrade’s Sudden WWE Release
Sources close to WWE shared with Sports Illustrated’s Jon Alba on The Takedown podcast that Andrade’s exit was not mutual nor a result of contractual expiration. Instead, it was WWE’s decision triggered by Andrade failing to adhere to the company’s wellness policy during his recent tenure. Though the exact nature of the violation remains unspecified—whether it was a positive drug test or non-compliance with testing procedures—it resulted in his suspension without pay and an immediate departure from WWE tapings[3][4][6].
A high-level WWE insider told SI, “He was escorted out of the building after being told to leave a SmackDown taping last month, and this wasn’t simply a creative decision; it was a direct consequence of a wellness violation.” This disciplinary move unexpectedly disrupted the creative plans WWE had in store for Andrade, especially regarding his promising tag team partnership with Rey Fenix[3][2].
Impact on Andrade’s Role and WWE Storylines
Andrade’s release came shortly after his participation in the Six-Pack TLC Match at SummerSlam 2025, which was his final televised appearance with WWE. Officials had reportedly been trying to reach him for weeks leading up to the decision, but to no avail, further complicating the situation behind the scenes[3]. Plans for Andrade and Fenix’s tag team push—including speculation of them winning tag titles and engaging in high-profile matches like a proposed Clash in Paris bout against the Wyatt 6—were abruptly scrapped[2].
This sudden creative pivot highlights how serious WWE was about enforcing its wellness policy, even at the cost of disrupting major storylines. “The company is very clear that wellness compliance is non-negotiable,” a backstage source explained. “Despite Andrade’s in-ring talent and potential, WWE doesn’t shy away from tough decisions when it comes to policy violations”[3].
Andrade’s Wellness Policy History and WWE Return
This is not Andrade’s first wellness violation under WWE’s jurisdiction. During his original run with the company, he served a 30-day suspension in January 2020 after a wellness policy breach. Following his initial departure in 2021, Andrade signed with AEW and remained there until December 2023, just a month before his surprise WWE comeback at the 2024 Royal Rumble[3][1].
His return was met with optimism, as WWE fans and management anticipated a significant push for Andrade, especially on SmackDown where he quickly became a fixture. His recent feud with Carmelo Hayes and alliance with Rey Fenix positioned him as a key performer. However, this latest wellness violation halted those aspirations abruptly and overshadowed his in-ring accomplishments.
What’s Next for Andrade?
With WWE having removed Andrade from its active roster and moved him to the alumni section of the company website, his future remains uncertain. The release also brings into question his eligibility and willingness to join other wrestling promotions such as AEW or Mexico’s CMLL, where he enjoyed considerable success prior to WWE’s recent engagements.
Notably, insiders close to AEW suggest the door isn’t firmly closed for Andrade despite his WWE dismissal. “There have been informal discussions,” one source revealed, “but it’s still too early to say if he’ll return to AEW or explore alternatives.” Meanwhile, Andrade himself has yet to make any public comments about the release or his next steps[1].
WWE’s Wellness Policy and Enforcement Post-TKO Merger
Since WWE’s merger with UFC’s parent company Endeavor in 2023, wellness policy violations have been rare and handled discreetly. Andrade’s case represents one of the few publicly known disciplinary actions, marking a significant moment for WWE’s internal regulatory measures in this new era.
WWE continues to stress that its wellness program is designed to protect talent welfare, emphasizing transparency and accountability. The Andrade situation serves as a reminder that even established stars are subject to these rules and can face severe consequences for missteps.
Behind the Scenes Quote:
“WWE values the health and safety of its talent above all else, and the wellness policy is a critical pillar of that commitment,” a WWE official stated confidentially. “While it’s unfortunate to see a talent like Andrade go under such circumstances, the company maintains a zero-tolerance stance on policy violations to ensure a clean and professional environment.”
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This in-depth look into Andrade’s WWE exit underscores how disciplinary issues can abruptly alter wrestling careers and company creative directions. As WWE continues evolving post-TKO merger, talent compliance with wellness policies remains a pivotal factor in career longevity and storyline development.