Kevin Owens pays tribute to R-Truth after WWE release, as the wrestling world reacts to the end of an era following the announcement that R-Truth, one of WWE’s most celebrated and loved talents, will soon be leaving the company for the first time in 17 years. The news sent shockwaves through the locker room and among fans, with numerous WWE legends and colleagues offering heartfelt tributes in response.
WWE Locker Room and Fans Express Their Surprise
The revelation that R-Truth’s WWE contract is expiring, without plans for renewal, caught both the roster and the WWE Universe off guard. R-Truth, a central figure recognized for his infectious humor, incredible performance skills, and the unique energy he brings to every arena, is poised to become a free agent for the first time since 2008. This development has not only impacted fans worldwide but has also deeply affected current and former performers who shared the ring and locker room with him.
In the days following the announcement, social media platforms have been flooded with testimonials and fond memories from fellow superstars, demonstrating the reach of R-Truth’s influence across generations of WWE talent. Scenes of camaraderie and laughter backstage, some dating back to SmackDown events in 2016, remain fresh in the minds of those who experienced them firsthand.
Emotional Tributes From WWE Stars
Several high-profile WWE personalities took the time to publicly honor R-Truth, emphasizing both his professional accomplishments and personal qualities. The Miz, who formed the tag team “Awesome Truth” with him, reflected on their shared journey and the indelible mark R-Truth has left on his career:
Forming Awesome Truth with you was one of the best runs of my career. No one made me laugh harder. Your energy, heart, and smile lit up every room…and every arena. You’re not one of a kind, you’re one in a lifetime. Love you, Truth. Keep shining. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/RU6UaDXGSx— The Miz (@mikethemiz) June 1, 2025
Kevin Owens, himself a major figure within WWE, offered powerful words about R-Truth’s legacy and personality:
I’ve said many times that there are a few people in this industry for whom I have unlimited respect, love and admiration for.
@RonKillings is at the very top of that list.
An incredible, timeless performer with an unmatched ability to entertain and bring a smile to anyone he encounters, be it the fans or every single person lucky enough to have had the privilege to work alongside him.
His kindness, humility and infectious good nature makes him one of the most beloved people I’ve met in this industry and the void that his absence will leave in our locker room is immeasurable.
I love you, dude.
Pat McAfee, known for his energetic presence both on commentary and in the ring, described what R-Truth means to both his own family and the greater WWE community:
I love @RonKillingsIt’s guaranteed joy when he’s a part of a segment.. He’s also my dad’s favorite WWE Superstar of all time.The McAfees are bummed aht but we all know R Truth will continue to bless the world with his BIG ass brain THANK YOU TRUTH pic.twitter.com/ZswYMvQIzi— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) June 1, 2025
Fellow Performers Recall Unforgettable Moments and Lessons
Beyond the accolades and in-ring highlights, it was R-Truth’s presence backstage and his relationships with other talents that stood out. Big E, a long-time colleague and friend, paid tribute to Truth’s unwavering positivity and camaraderie:
No one made me laugh backstage more than Ron. I’ve known this man for 13 years. He treated me like a brother from the very first day. Never saw him in a bad mood. A man who spread kindness and joy every chance he could.
Carmelo Hayes, representing the new generation of stars, credited R-Truth for his mentorship and his role as a bridge-builder in the locker room:
Thank you for everything you’ve done for the business, the doors you opened and being a real OG to the whole locker room. Taught me a lot about the game and how to navigate this business. Ron Killings is timeless!
Dean “Mojo” Mahtudi reminisced about the pure enjoyment R-Truth brought to every project and segment, highlighting not only his performance abilities but his impact on morale and shared memories with fellow stars:
This is truly the end of an era. Working with @RonKillings was always a real treat. One of the most entertaining to ever do it. The skit we did with @TheMikeRallis at the @OriginalFunko HQ was one of the most fun moments of my career.
Matthew Rehwoldt, previously known as Aiden English, echoed similar admiration for Truth’s ability to connect with audiences no matter his position on the card:
The number of times I’ve been on a card with Ron and he was one of the most over performers on the card – even if it was during a time when he wasn’t being featured on TV – I can’t even count.
One of the funniest and best out there !
Behind the Curtain: Support Staff and Industry Veterans Also Weigh In
Cathy Kelley, one of WWE’s well-known on-air personalities, offered her appreciation for the support she received from R-Truth during her own journey in the company:
one of my favorite and most supportive people i’ve ever gotten to work with. gonna miss you so much Truthy
Meanwhile, Tom Pestock—familiar to fans as Baron Corbin and now as Bishop Dyer—emphasized his appreciation for the reliability and professionalism that R-Truth consistently demonstrated both inside and outside the ring:
Mind blowing! A true company guy and amazing person! Thank you for everything in and out of the ring my friend.
What R-Truth’s Departure Means for WWE and the Future
Though many within WWE and the global wrestling community are saddened by the thought of losing the
“greatest 24/7 7/11 I-95 South European Hardcore champ,”
there is also optimism about the next chapter in R-Truth’s career. Industry insiders suggest that his unique blend of humor, athleticism, and genuine connection with fans ensures he will not be a free agent for long.
Tommy Dreamer, a former WWE and now TNA executive, is among those looking to R-Truth’s potential return to the company where he once held championships prior to his recent WWE run. TNA recently spotlighted R-Truth’s earlier achievements, hinting at future opportunities should he choose to continue his wrestling journey elsewhere.
As the company and its fans prepare to bid farewell to a performer whose smile, creativity, and uplifting demeanor shaped the WWE locker room for nearly two decades, the significance of R-Truth’s legacy comes into sharp focus. The tributes from Kevin Owens and others reaffirm not only his influence on the business, but the personal impact he made on everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him. R-Truth’s next step remains his decision, but his place in wrestling history is secure and celebrated by all whose lives he touched.
