Andrade's Second WWE Stint Concludes Abruptly After Reported Release

World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has reportedly released Manuel Alfonso Andrade Oropeza, known professionally as Andrade, marking an unexpected end to his second tenure with the sports entertainment giant. The news, initially reported by veteran professional wrestling journalist Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select, emerged on September 13, 2025, just over a year and a half after his high-profile return to the company.

Sapp’s report indicated that Andrade’s departure was an isolated incident, not part of a larger series of roster cuts, and notably, he was not listed on WWE’s internal injury report. This detail underscored that the release was not health-related, a common factor in such personnel changes. Further clarification came from Jon Alba of Sports Illustrated, who subsequently reported that the decision was not a mutual one between Andrade and WWE, nor was it driven by budget considerations. These specifics paint a picture of a direct and unilateral decision by the company regarding the accomplished Mexican superstar.

Andrade’s recent activities within WWE had seen him form a tag team with Rey Fenix over the summer months, a pairing that garnered significant attention and two opportunities for championship gold. The duo challenged the formidable Wyatt Sicks faction for their titles, with their most recent encounter taking place in a high-stakes Six-Pack Tables, Ladders, and Chairs (TLC) match at the annual SummerSlam pay-per-view event on August 3, 2025. Despite the prominent booking, Andrade had not been seen on WWE television since that event and reports indicated he had not been present backstage at subsequent shows, leading to internal speculation about his status prior to the official reports of his release. Following the news, Andrade’s profile was swiftly moved to WWE’s alumni section on its official website, a standard procedure for departed talent.

Andrade’s second run with WWE commenced in early 2024, following a notable period with All Elite Wrestling (AEW). His return was heralded by fans who remembered his previous accomplishments and saw potential for him to reach new heights within the global juggernaut. During this most recent stint, Andrade participated in several high-profile matches and storylines. A significant highlight was his tag team partnership with Rey Mysterio, culminating in an appearance at WrestleMania 40, one of the biggest events in the wrestling calendar. This pairing, though brief, showcased Andrade’s ability to work with top-tier talent and contributed to the spectacle of the grand event.

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Another notable program was a best-of-seven series against rising star Carmelo Hayes. Such multi-match series are often reserved for significant rivalries and are designed to elevate talent through sustained, competitive storytelling. While specific match outcomes and the ultimate victor of the series were central to its narrative, the very nature of the booking indicated WWE’s initial investment in Andrade’s on-screen presence and his capacity to deliver compelling in-ring performances. Furthermore, Andrade competed in two Money in the Bank ladder matches during his second run, events renowned for their unpredictability and the career-altering opportunities they present. Participation in these high-stakes contests underscored his standing as a prominent figure within the roster, capable of vying for main event status.

Prior to his return in 2024, Andrade’s journey with WWE began in 2015 when he signed with the company. He quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the NXT brand, which serves as WWE’s developmental territory. Under the tutelage of the NXT system, Andrade honed his craft and captured the coveted NXT Championship. His reign as champion was a significant period for the brand, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier performer. After a successful run in NXT, he transitioned to WWE’s main roster in 2018, where he continued to impress audiences with his unique blend of athleticism and charisma. During his initial main roster run, Andrade achieved another significant milestone by winning the United States Championship. This title reign further cemented his status as a key mid-card performer, defending the championship against various competitors and showcasing his versatility in the ring. However, by 2021, Andrade requested and was granted his release from WWE, seeking new opportunities outside the company.

Following his departure from WWE in 2021, Andrade made a high-profile debut with All Elite Wrestling (AEW), adopting the moniker Andrade El Idolo. His time in AEW saw him engage in numerous compelling feuds and partnerships, working with some of the industry’s most respected talents. He was a prominent figure in the company, showcasing his skills in various singles and tag team matches. A particularly strong showing came during AEW’s inaugural Continental Classic grand prix tournament. This tournament, designed to crown a new champion and highlight the company’s competitive depth, saw Andrade deliver a series of critically acclaimed performances, reminding fans and industry observers of his exceptional in-ring capabilities. His strong showing in the Continental Classic was widely seen as a significant factor in the renewed interest that ultimately led to his return to WWE in 2024.

The conclusion of Andrade’s second WWE stint, just over eighteen months after his highly anticipated return, leaves many questions regarding the specific reasons for the company’s decision. While the reports from Sapp and Alba clarify what the release was not – not injury-related, not budget-driven, and not mutual – the underlying factors remain unstated by WWE. Andrade himself has not publicly addressed his reported release as of the time of this report, maintaining silence on the matter.

Andrade’s career trajectory has been characterized by significant highs and notable transitions between major promotions. His multiple championship reigns in both NXT and on WWE’s main roster, coupled with his impactful run in AEW, underscore his talent and consistent ability to perform at the highest level. His sudden departure from WWE once again places him as a free agent in the professional wrestling landscape, opening avenues for potential future engagements with other promotions or independent ventures. The implications for WWE’s ongoing storylines, particularly the Rey Fenix tag team, will likely become apparent in the coming weeks as the company adjusts its programming following this significant roster change.