Both PWInsider Elite and Fightful Select have published reports on backstage news and internal reactions to the release of R-Truth from WWE.
Truth announced on Sunday morning via social media, that his has been released from WWE and that the company is not renewing his contract. Both Fightful and PWInsider did confirm that Truth’s social media post was legitimate and not a work.
PWInsider Elite’s report notes the following:
Truth still has some time remaining on his current contract and that once it officially expires, he will be a free agent and clear to sign with another promotion.
The initial reaction, specifically among talent was skepticism and shock, with some talent first believing that Truth’s social media accounts had been hacked or that he was posting a joke, which fits his comedy role. Some even went as far as thinking this was an “April Fool’s Joke three months later.”
Truth was described as many to be “extremely popular across the board in the locker room” and that “how could the company cut him?” One talent said Truth is the type of personality who adds levity and can be seamlessly put into any type of situation, whether its a match, a vignette, etc. and that he would contribute in which things were “always going to work.”
Some within WWE had questioned why Truth was not offered an ambassadorial role, given how loved he was backstage and by the fans.
Truth’s release has left some feeling unsettled, saying that “nothing is guaranteed” in the current landscape of WWE, with another talent noting that they want to ensure their new contract is negotiated and secured “well in advance.”
Fightful Select’s report notes the following:
Sources close to the situation, said Truth was assured his release was not as a result of any misconduct or backstage issues and that he did nothing wrong. Several talents expressed confusion and concern and had seen Truth as a “WWE-lifer.”
The reaction within the WWE locker room is said to have been one of disbelief, along with an overwhelming negative atmosphere. One top star is said to have called Truth’s release “total nonsense,” while another talent noted the current leadership under TKO is “ruthless.”
Furthermore, additional individuals familiar with the situation, said Truth’s release has ignited more backlash and widespread disappointment in recent memory. No one has any bad thing to say about Truth and he is widely respected across the entire WWE roster.
It was added that Truth’s merchandise continues to be strong. The “Ron Cena” t-shirt, was said to be one of WWE’s top sellers.
There is strong belief that he still hold the rights to Ron “The Truth” Killings and will be able to use that full name outside of WWE.
It was concluded that independent pro wrestling promotions have already started showing interest in Truth with several asking about his booking availability once he is a free agent as sources note the expiration date is very soon.