Andrade’s exit from WWE SmackDown has drawn attention after reports revealed disciplinary actions tied to a wellness policy violation. The 35-year-old wrestler, who made his return to WWE at the 2024 Royal Rumble following successful tenures in All Elite Wrestling and CMLL, had been an active performer on the SmackDown brand until his removal in September 2025. His WWE journey included a storyline involving Rey Mysterio and Dominik Mysterio, culminating in a tag team match at WrestleMania 40 against Dominik and Santos Escobar.
Despite being drafted to SmackDown, Andrade’s tenure ended unexpectedly when he was moved to WWE’s alumni page on September 13, with no formal statement released by the promotion. It was later confirmed that his departure was not due to injury, but linked to challenges related to WWE’s wellness policies, as reported by Wrestling Observer Radio’s Dave Meltzer.
Incident Led to Immediate Removal from WWE Premises
Though the exact details of Andrade’s wellness violation remain confidential, sources indicate that he served an unpaid suspension. During a SmackDown taping last month, Andrade was escorted offsite, a move confirmed to be connected to his previous suspension. This sudden removal disrupted his ongoing storyline, particularly his promising tag team alliance with Rey Fenix.
WWE had initially planned to showcase Andrade and Fenix in a tag team championship match against The Wyatt Sicks’ Dexter Lumis and Joe Gacy at WWE Clash in Paris. However, issues emerging following SummerSlam forced creative changes, with The Street Profits replacing the team in the match. Andrade’s struggles with the wellness policy are not new; a similar violation during his initial WWE run in January 2020 resulted in a 30-day suspension.
Impact on WWE Storylines and Future Prospects
Andrade’s exit marks a significant shift for WWE’s SmackDown roster, removing a key talent previously positioned for major storylines and title opportunities. His partnership with Rey Fenix had earned acclaim, and plans to contend for tag team gold highlighted the company’s intentions before unforeseen complications arose. This development leaves questions about the future direction of SmackDown’s tag team division.
The decision to remove Andrade also emphasizes WWE’s ongoing commitment to enforcing its wellness policy, reinforcing the consequences of non-compliance within its talent roster. As the company continues to evolve, the incident serves as a reminder of the high standards expected from performers both in and outside the ring.
