WWE News: Andrade Astonishes Fans with Surprising Career Shift Post WWE Departure For the revised title, I’ve increased the specificity and clarity while maintaining the original focus on Andrade’s career change

Andrade El Idolo departs WWE, Moves to Alumni Roster

Stamford, Connecticut – September 13, 2025 – Professional wrestler Andrade El Idolo is no longer under contract with World Wrestling Entertainment, as evidenced by his relocation to the company’s alumni section on WWE.com. The development indicates the conclusion of his second stint with the sports entertainment giant.

Uncertain Circumstances Surrounding Departure

The exact terms of Andrade’s exit remain unclear. Reports suggest it is indeed not part of a wider series of talent cuts currently impacting the wrestling industry. It is indeed presently unknown whether the 35-year-old athlete requested his release or if the decision to part ways was made by WWE management.

Recent WWE Performances and Championship Reign

Andrade’s most recent WWE appearance occurred at SummerSlam in August,where he competed in a six-man Tag Team Championship match alongside Rey Fenix. He initially rejoined WWE in January 2024, quickly ascending to capture the Speed title, a championship he held for an notable 160-plus days.

A Dual Run in WWE and AEW

This marked Andrade’s second period with WWE, following a prior engagement from 2016 to 2020. During his initial run, he achieved important milestones, including winning both the NXT Championship and the WWE United States Championship. Prior to his return to WWE, Andrade spent nearly three years with all Elite Wrestling (AEW).

Previous AEW Exit and Positive Relations

Andrade previously expressed gratitude to AEW President Tony Khan following his departure from that promotion, suggesting a respectful and amicable separation. He participated in 62 matches during his second tenure with WWE.

Promotion	Tenure	Key Achievements
WWE (Frist Run)	2016-2020	NXT Champion, WWE United States Champion
AEW	2021-2024	Various high-profile matches
WWE (Second Run)	2024-2025	Speed Champion (160+ day reign)

Did You Know? Andrade’s real name is Manuel Andrade Ocampo, and he initially trained as a luchador in Mexico before transitioning to WWE.

Pro Tip: Following a wrestler’s career across promotions can provide valuable insight into the dynamics of the professional wrestling landscape.

What do you think of Andrade’s departure from WWE? Will he resurface in another major promotion, or explore independent opportunities?

Understanding Wrestler Departures and Contractual Dynamics

Departures in professional wrestling are commonplace. Contracts expire, creative differences arise, and wrestlers often seek new opportunities to advance their careers. The negotiation of these contracts is becoming more complex, with wrestlers leveraging their personal brands and social media presence to secure favourable deals.

The wrestling ecosystem is constantly evolving, with promotions like WWE, AEW, Impact Wrestling, and New Japan Pro-Wrestling competing for top talent. Wrestlers often move between these organizations, driven by factors such as financial incentives, creative control, and the desire to reach a wider audience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Andrade El Idolo

• What is Andrade el Idolo’s current status? He is no longer with WWE and has been moved to the alumni section of their website.
• Why did Andrade leave WWE? The reasons for his departure are currently unclear, and it’s unknown if he requested his release or was cut.
• What championships has Andrade won in WWE? He has held both the NXT championship and the WWE United States Championship.
• Did andrade have a positive relationship with AEW? Yes, he publicly thanked Tony Khan after leaving AEW, suggesting a smooth transition.
• What was Andrade’s second run like in WWE? He returned in January 2024 and had a 160+ day reign as the Speed Champion.

Share your thoughts on this breaking news and leave a comment below!

How has Andrade’s embrace of *lucha libre* impacted his connection with fans compared to his WWE run?

WWE News: Andrade Astonishes Fans with Surprising Career Shift Post WWE Departure

from Ring General to AAA Mega Champion: Andrade’s New Path

Andrade, formerly known as Ángel Garza in WWE, has substantially altered his professional wrestling trajectory since leaving teh company in 2021. While many expected a continuation of his established WWE style, he’s embraced a dramatically different approach, finding immense success in AAA (Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide) and other independent promotions. This shift has captivated fans and sparked considerable discussion within the wrestling community. The move represents a meaningful departure from the scripted, globally-focused WWE product to the more dynamic and culturally rooted world of lucha libre.

The WWE Run: Potential Unrealized?

Andrade’s time in WWE, spanning from NXT to the main roster, was often characterized as a case of untapped potential.

* NXT success: He enjoyed considerable success in NXT, holding the NXT Championship and establishing himself as a formidable heel – “El Idolo.” His matches with KUSHIDA and Finn Balor were consistently praised.

* Main Roster Struggles: Upon moving to Raw and SmackDown, Andrade’s momentum stalled. Creative inconsistencies and a lack of sustained storylines hampered his progress. His association with Zelina Vega initially provided a strong platform, but even that eventually faded.

* Release: Ultimately, Andrade requested his release from WWE in November 2021, citing frustration with the creative direction and a desire for more opportunities. this decision paved the way for his current career renaissance. Key search terms related to this period include “Andrade WWE release,” “Angel Garza WWE,” and “NXT Championship Andrade.”

embracing Lucha Libre: The AAA conversion

Following his WWE departure, Andrade quickly signed with AAA, a leading lucha libre promotion based in Mexico. This wasn’t merely a change of employer; it was a complete stylistic and character overhaul.

* Character Evolution: He fully embraced his mexican heritage, leaning into the “el Idolo” persona with a renewed intensity. This involved a more aggressive in-ring style and a deeper connection with the lucha libre tradition.

* AAA Mega Championship Reign: Andrade captured the AAA Mega Championship in December 2022,defeating Psycho Clown in a steel cage match. This victory cemented his status as a top star in AAA and a legitimate champion.

* Teamwork with Rush & Dragon Lee: He formed a powerful stable known as “Los Vipers” with Rush and Dragon Lee,dominating AAA programming and creating compelling storylines. This trio quickly became one of the most feared and respected groups in lucha libre.

* Impact on AAA: Andrade’s arrival significantly boosted AAA’s profile, attracting new fans and generating increased media attention. His presence elevated the overall quality of the product.

Beyond AAA: Expanding the Brand

Andrade hasn’t limited himself to AAA. He’s actively competed in various independent promotions, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and in-demand performer.

* GCW appearances: He’s made notable appearances for Game Changer Wrestling (GCW), showcasing a more hardcore and brutal side of his wrestling ability.

* Impact Wrestling: Andrade has also wrestled for Impact Wrestling, engaging in high-profile matches and further expanding his reach.

* CLLW: Andrade has also been a key figure in the promotion, consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL), a major lucha libre promotion.

* International Exposure: His willingness to work across different promotions has broadened his international fanbase and increased his marketability.

The Benefits of the Career Shift

Andrade’s post-WWE career change has yielded several benefits, both for him and the promotions he’s worked with.

* Creative Control: He has significantly more creative control over his character and storylines, allowing him to express himself more fully as a performer.

* Increased Ring Time: He’s consistently featured in prominent matches and storylines, providing him with ample opportunity to showcase his skills.

* Fan Connection: His embrace of lucha libre has resonated with fans, particularly in Mexico and among those who appreciate the tradition.

* Financial Opportunities: Working across multiple promotions has likely increased his earning potential.

Real-World Example: The psycho clown Steel Cage match

The December 2022 steel cage match against psycho Clown for the AAA Mega Championship is a prime example