Former WCW star and wrestling legend Konnan recently shared his thoughts on what might have happened if Andrade, the talented former WWE United States Champion, had remained with WWE instead of departing for AEW and Mexican promotions. This insight sheds light on Andrade’s unrealized potential within WWE and how his career trajectory could have evolved under different circumstances.
The Rise and Departure of Andrade in WWE
Andrade, born into lucha libre royalty, rapidly made a name for himself both in Mexico and internationally before signing with WWE. He enjoyed early success in WWE’s NXT brand, winning the NXT Championship in 2017, and later captured the United States Championship during his run on the main roster, showcasing his elite in-ring skills and charisma[1].
Despite these accomplishments, Andrade’s second tenure in WWE did not fulfill the high expectations many had. After returning in the 2024 Royal Rumble and even becoming the second-ever WWE Speed Champion, his momentum stalled, and he eventually departed WWE abruptly in September 2025[1][5].
Konnan’s Perspective: Bigger Things Could Have Happened
In a recent interview, Konnan speculated that Andrade’s unrealized potential in WWE was significant. Known for understanding the nuances of both American and Mexican wrestling scenes, Konnan believes that if WWE had more effectively harnessed Andrade’s talents, he could have risen to even greater heights.
“He has everything—charisma, technical skill, lucha libre heritage,” Konnan noted. “If WWE had given him a longer, more consistent push, Andrade could have been a cornerstone star in the U.S. market and a crossover icon for Latin fans.”
Konnan’s theory emphasizes that Andrade’s creativity and authentic style could have been showcased on bigger stages and more meaningful storylines, rather than the sporadic bookings and indecision which marred his tenure[1].
A WWE Insider’s Take on Andrade’s WWE Exit
According to a WWE insider familiar with backstage dynamics, tensions around Andrade’s character direction and WWE’s creative vision played a significant role in his decline within the company.
“WWE was excited about Andrade’s potential after the 2024 Royal Rumble return, but creative kept shifting gears, and he never found a solid niche,” the source disclosed. “At some point, the lack of consistent storytelling made both sides frustrated. Andrade wanted to evolve beyond being just a fast-paced champion, but WWE wasn’t ready to take that step with him.”
This insider insight aligns with Konnan’s view that despite Andrade’s evident talent and previous championship run, WWE failed to capitalize on his momentum and unique appeal[1][5].
Andrade’s Next Chapter: Success Outside WWE
Since leaving WWE, Andrade has found renewed success on the Mexican independent circuit, capturing The Crash Heavyweight Championship—one of Mexico’s prestigious titles. He described this win as deeply meaningful, a redemption of sorts after his WWE journey[2].
“I had been chasing that championship for years,” Andrade said in a recent interview. “Leaving WWE opened the door for me to focus on what really matters—making a mark in wrestling that honors my roots and gives back to the fans.”
His return to All Elite Wrestling (AEW) also marks a fresh chapter. Aligning with Don Callis and making an immediate impact by targeting AEW champions signals Andrade’s intent to reinvent himself[3][5].
The Broader Context: Latin Stars and WWE’s Challenges
Andrade’s story highlights a broader challenge WWE faces with Latin American stars. While wrestling fans celebrate the immense talent and charisma these stars bring, WWE has struggled to consistently showcase them in compelling ways.
Konnan, himself a pioneer for Latino wrestlers in American mainstream wrestling, suggests WWE missed an opportunity with Andrade: “He could have been a trailblazer for the Latin community on the biggest platform. Instead, his exit is a loss not just for WWE but for wrestling fans worldwide.”
What’s Next for Andrade and WWE?
While Andrade’s focus now is on AEW and continues success in Mexico, questions remain about WWE’s ability to retain and properly elevate top-tier Latin talent. Sources close to WWE say internal discussions are ongoing about improving storytelling and wrestler utilization to avoid letting potential stars slip away again.
“WWE understands these miss-steps, and there’s a push to be more inclusive and strategic,” a company executive stated on condition of anonymity. “We want stars like Andrade to stay and thrive, but it requires a commitment to long-term creative plans.”
Final Thoughts
Konnan’s reflections offer a valuable look at Andrade’s career and what might have been had WWE fully capitalized on his talents. The combination of Andrade’s lucha libre background, athleticism, and marketability positioned him as a potential major star in WWE.
Yet, inconsistent booking and shifting creative priorities limited his main roster impact, ultimately leading to his departure. His success outside WWE now underscores the need for the company to better support and showcase diverse talents moving forward.
Backstage whispers and insider sources agree: Andrade’s story serves as a cautionary tale for WWE, but also a hopeful sign about wrestling’s evolving global landscape where talents can find success beyond any single promotion.