WWE’s recent decision to release Andrade El Idolo was reportedly driven by a disciplinary issue linked to a wellness policy violation, rather than a mutual agreement. New insights revealed by Sports Illustrated’s The Takedown, corroborating earlier reports from wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer, show that Andrade was suspended without pay and escorted out of a SmackDown taping last month. This unexpected exit disrupted WWE’s creative plans and has major implications for both the star and the company.
The Circumstances Behind Andrade’s Sudden Release
Andrade returned to WWE in January 2024, making an impact on the SmackDown brand after his Royal Rumble appearance. As a prominent figure on the roster, he was involved in a budding tag team with Rey Fenix and engaged in notable feuds, positioning him for a potential push. However, according to multiple WWE insiders close to The Takedown, Andrade’s tenure was cut short due to at least one violation of WWE’s Wellness Policy during his latest run.
The exact nature of the violation—whether it was a positive test for a banned substance or non-compliance with mandatory testing protocols—has not been made public. WWE does not commonly announce details about wellness policy breaches, and this case marks one of the few times such a disciplinary action has been reported following the company’s 2023 TKO Group Holdings merger.
A high-level source explained to Sports Illustrated:
“Andrade being escorted out after the SmackDown taping wasn’t just about protocol; it was tied directly to his suspension. This caused serious disruption, especially since there were major creative plans for his partnership with Rey Fenix.” — WWE Insider
This indicates that Andrade’s suspension and subsequent release were swift and decisive moves by WWE management, emphasizing their no-tolerance stance on wellness violations internally.
Prior History With WWE’s Wellness Policy
This is not Andrade’s first wellness policy issue. During his initial WWE run, he served a 30-day suspension in January 2020 due to his first violation. Despite that setback, Andrade continued to work with WWE before departing in 2021. He then joined AEW, where he performed until December 2023, shortly before making his WWE comeback.
WWE’s wellness policy is designed to ensure talent adheres to health, safety, and integrity standards. Violations can range from drug tests to procedural breaches, and repeat offenses often lead to escalating suspensions or termination.
Impact on WWE Storylines and Andrade’s Future
The consequences of Andrade’s release were immediate backstage. Reports from Bodyslam.net revealed WWE officials struggled to contact Andrade in the weeks before his termination, complicating any attempts to resolve the situation amicably or adjust creative plans. The pairing with Rey Fenix, which had generated interest among fans, was abruptly canceled, and Andrade’s profile was quickly moved to the WWE alumni section on the website before the news broke publicly.
With Andrade now a free agent, speculation about his next career move is intense. Although he departed AEW in late 2023 before returning to WWE, sources close to AEW president Tony Khan suggest the door could still be open for Andrade’s return. Moreover, Mexican promotion CMLL remains a viable option if Andrade opts for international opportunities.
An industry source commented:
“Despite this setback, Andrade remains a talented performer with options outside WWE. AEW and CMLL have history with him, so a comeback or a fresh start is not off the table.” — Wrestling Industry Analyst
However, Andrade’s release sends a strong message about WWE’s commitment to enforcing its wellness policy, which reportedly has been less publicly acknowledged since the 2023 TKO merger.
WWE’s Silence and Andrade’s Last Appearance
As of now, WWE has declined to issue a public comment on the specifics of Andrade’s release or his wellness policy violation. Andrade himself has not made any official statements regarding the situation. His final WWE match took place at SummerSlam in a Six-Pack TLC Match, marking an abrupt endpoint to his latest WWE chapter.
Industry watchers view this as a cautionary tale about the high expectations WWE places on talent behavior, behind-the-scenes professionalism, and adherence to company policies.
In summary, Andrade El Idolo’s release stemmed from a significant wellness policy breach, leading to a suspension without pay and his immediate removal from WWE programming. This disciplinary action disrupted key creative plans and highlighted WWE’s stringent enforcement of its wellness protocol. While Andrade’s future remains uncertain, possibilities with AEW or other promotions linger, though the episode serves as a stark reminder of the professional risks in the wrestling business.