arthur roy sitompulManuel Alfonso Andrade Oropeza, known globally in professional wrestling as Andrade, has reportedly been released by World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), concluding his second tenure with the company after approximately a year and a half. The news, which surfaced on September 13, 2025, marks a significant and unexpected development in the career of the former NXT and United States Champion.
Professional wrestling journalist Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful.com was the first to break the story, indicating that Andrade’s departure was an isolated incident rather than part of a larger series of roster cuts. Sapp further clarified that Andrade was not listed on WWE’s internal injury reports, suggesting his absence from programming was not medically mandated. Subsequent reporting from Jon Alba of Sports Illustrated corroborated the release, adding crucial context that the decision was neither mutual nor driven by budget considerations, pointing towards a more complex, potentially creative-based, rationale for the separation.
Andrade’s second run with WWE commenced in early 2024, following a notable stint with All Elite Wrestling (AEW). His return was met with considerable anticipation, given his reputation as an elite in-ring performer with a distinctive blend of high-flying athleticism and hard-hitting precision. However, his most recent activity saw him paired in a tag team alongside the agile Rey Fenix. This tandem had recently challenged for tag team gold, facing the formidable Wyatt Sicks faction on two occasions. Their most prominent title opportunity came at SummerSlam, WWE’s flagship August pay-per-view, where they participated in a chaotic six-pack Tables, Ladders, and Chairs (TLC) match for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship. Despite their efforts, Andrade and Fenix were unsuccessful in capturing the titles, with the Wyatt Sicks retaining their championship status in a brutal encounter that highlighted the faction’s dominance.
Since the SummerSlam event on August 3, Andrade had not made any further televised appearances, nor had he been reported backstage at subsequent WWE tapings. This prolonged absence had fueled speculation among fans and industry observers regarding his status, speculation that has now culminated in reports of his release. As of September 13, 2025, Andrade’s profile has been transitioned to WWE’s alumni section on their official website, a standard procedure for talent no longer under contract.
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Andrade’s second chapter with WWE, though relatively brief, was not without its moments. A significant highlight included his partnership with legendary luchador Rey Mysterio at WrestleMania 40, one of professional wrestling’s grandest stages. The pairing, which saw the veteran Mysterio mentor Andrade, culminated in a high-stakes tag team match against a formidable opponent. While the specific outcome of that match is secondary to the spectacle, the opportunity to perform alongside a revered figure like Mysterio on such a platform underscored WWE’s initial investment in Andrade’s return. This collaboration was designed to leverage Mysterio’s enduring popularity and provide Andrade with a high-profile platform to re-establish himself with the WWE Universe.
Furthermore, Andrade engaged in a critically acclaimed best-of-seven series against the highly touted Carmelo Hayes. This series, which unfolded across several weeks of WWE programming, was a showcase of technical wrestling and athletic prowess. Each match in the series presented a different stipulation or challenge, pushing both competitors to their limits and earning praise from critics for its in-ring quality and storytelling. The series was widely regarded as a strategic move to position Andrade as a serious contender within the company’s competitive landscape, demonstrating his ability to carry a long-form narrative and deliver consistent, high-caliber performances. Although the ultimate winner of the series was less significant than the quality of competition, it served as a testament to Andrade’s skill and WWE’s confidence in his abilities to anchor a prominent storyline.
Andrade also participated in two Money in the Bank ladder matches during his second stint, in 2024 and 2025 respectively. The Money in the Bank match is one of WWE’s most unpredictable and high-stakes annual contests, offering the winner a contract for a championship match at any time of their choosing. His inclusion in these matches signaled that he was considered a significant figure within the main event picture, capable of competing with the company’s top stars for major opportunities. While he did not secure the coveted briefcase in either attempt, his participation underscored his perceived value and potential as a future champion.
Prior to his return in 2024, Andrade’s initial tenure with WWE began in 2015. Initially performing under the name La Sombra, he quickly established himself in WWE’s developmental territory, NXT. His talent was undeniable, and his ascent culminated in him capturing the NXT Championship, a prestigious title that has served as a proving ground for many future main roster stars. His reign as NXT Champion was characterized by intense rivalries and compelling matches, solidifying his status as a top prospect.
In 2018, Andrade, then known as Andrade "Cien" Almas, graduated to the main roster, where he continued to impress with his dynamic in-ring style. During this period, he notably won the United States Championship, defeating a respected veteran to claim the title. His reign as United States Champion further cemented his position as a prominent mid-card competitor, capable of delivering memorable performances on a weekly basis. However, despite his obvious talent and championship success, reports eventually surfaced in 2021 indicating a growing dissatisfaction with his creative direction and overall utilization within the company. These frustrations ultimately led to him being granted his release in March 2021, concluding his first run with WWE.
Following his departure from WWE, Andrade made a highly anticipated debut with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in June 2021, adopting the moniker Andrade El Idolo. His time in AEW saw him engage in various prominent feuds and matches, showcasing his abilities to a new audience and establishing himself as a significant player in the burgeoning promotion. A particular highlight of his AEW tenure was his strong performance in the Continental Classic grand prix. The Continental Classic, an inaugural round-robin tournament, was designed to identify the top technical and competitive wrestlers in the company. Andrade’s impressive showing in the tournament, characterized by a series of hard-fought matches and strategic victories, not only reaffirmed his standing as an elite competitor but also served as a catalyst for his eventual return to WWE in 2024.
The news of Andrade’s latest release leaves many questions unanswered regarding the specifics of his departure and his immediate future in professional wrestling. With his proven track record, international experience, and undeniable in-ring skill, Andrade remains a highly sought-after talent in the global wrestling landscape. Promotions such as AEW, New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL), and Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (AAA) could all potentially be viable destinations for the accomplished wrestler. His ability to adapt to different styles and promotions, coupled with his drawing power, makes him a valuable asset for any company looking to bolster its roster.
As of the time of this report, Andrade has not yet publicly addressed his reported release from WWE. The wrestling world now awaits his statement and his next move, anticipating where the talented Manuel Alfonso Andrade Oropeza will choose to continue his illustrious career.
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