WWE announced that they would be releasing a number of personnels immediately to cut budget and operating expenses due to the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Aside from talent, WWE has also released producers to trim down on costs.
The list of released WWE superstars include Rusev, Erick Rowan, Zack Ryder, Curt Hawkins, Heath Slater, Mike and Maria Kanellis. Even WWE RAW General Manager and veteran WWE referee Mike Chioda were released in the move.
Some of the released WWE superstars took to social media to express their sentiments about WWE’s announcement.
WWE Superstars React To WWE Release
Four-time WWE Tag Team Champion Heath Slater thanked everyone for the kind words on Twitter. He also said he would require more time to process the end of his 16 year career at the company.
He wrote, “I know everyone is waiting to hear my response to my release from WWE but after 16 years I’m going to need a little more than a few hours to really digest all my thoughts and emotions. For now, thank you all for all of your kind words and support during this time.”
WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle, who made his debut with the company in 1998, was also released from role as a producer. The four time WWF/WWE Champion thanked WWE. In addition, he encouraged superstars to continue entertaining the fans.
He wrote on Twitter, “I wanted 2 say thank you to the WWE for the time I spent there.I made many new friends and had the opportunity to work with so many talented people. To the Superstars, continue to entertain the WWE Universe as well as you possibly can. They’re the best fans in the world. #itstrue”
Former United States Champion Zack Ryder appreciated the opprtunity to work with WWE. However, he also stated that he was beyond excited for the future.
He wrote on Twitter, “The only thing I wanted to do in life was wrestle. I’m grateful I spent 14 years living my dream in WWE. Thanks to my fans & everyone who believed in me. As I was getting released, I was looking at this photo & smiling. I’m #AlwayzReady & beyond excited for the future. #NotThere”
Three-time United States Champion Rusev bid a simple goodbye. He posted throwback photos on Instagram with the caption, “Life is life. God is great. I’ll be alright”
In addition, Lio Rush, Fit Finlay, Deonna Purrazzo, No Way Jose, Drake Maverick, Lance Storm, and Mike Bennett also took to social media to express their sentiments.