Rhea Ripley pays tribute to R-Truth and Carlito on RAW after the company decided to part ways with both superstars, ending Carlito’s second term with WWE that began in 2021 and bringing R-Truth’s remarkable 17-year stint to a close. The announcement came as a shock to many, with fans expressing disappointment at the departure of two long-standing and well-loved performers.
Their release quickly drew a response from both the audience and fellow wrestlers. RAW did not ignore their absence—several wrestling personalities chose to honor Carlito and R-Truth on the very night following the news. Live audience chants for both left a clear mark on the show, making it evident just how much they meant to the WWE community.
RAW Superstars Celebrate Former Colleagues On Screen
Rhea Ripley, who was not scheduled for an in-ring appearance during the latest RAW episode, was spotted backstage donning an R-Truth T-shirt to acknowledge the former SmackDown superstar. This visual sign of respect underscored the level of camaraderie between the athletes, showing how the exits resonated deeply backstage.
Dominik Mysterio, the current Intercontinental Champion, demonstrated similar support by wearing a Carlito-themed shirt during his segment with The Judgment Day. Liv Morgan also joined in, incorporating Carlito’s name on her left boot for her Money in the Bank qualifier against Ivy Nile and Stephanie Vaquer, an indication of Carlito’s lasting influence among both experienced and rising talent.
Both Morgan and Mysterio have shared ties with Carlito, especially through their involvement in The Judgment Day—an alliance that included not only them but also Raquel Rodriguez, Finn Balor, and JD McDonagh. For many in the locker room and audience, the tributes served as a reminder of the bond these superstars formed during their time as part of one of RAW’s prominent groups.
JD McDonagh Expresses Admiration for Carlito After Exit
JD McDonagh, who worked closely with Carlito within The Judgment Day for the past year, used his social media platform to express bittersweet feelings about Carlito’s departure. He looked back on their shared moments and spoke candidly about the challenge of losing a friend and collaborator so suddenly.
“Absolutely gutted. It’s so hard getting close to people in the business, you never know when it’s gonna be the last car ride, the last hug. WE LOVE YOU DON CARLY, see you around dawg,”
—JD McDonagh, WWE Superstar
Carlito’s role in The Judgment Day was largely as a supporting member, assisting McDonagh, Finn Balor, and Dominik Mysterio in various match scenarios rather than taking the most active part in direct competition. Now, questions arise about who might replace Carlito within the group moving forward, and fans are left to wonder what path his and R-Truth’s wrestling careers will take next—whether with AEW, TNA, or elsewhere on the independent circuit.
What Lies Ahead for the Departed Superstars and WWE
The response from WWE superstars and fans following the release of Carlito and R-Truth has been both heartfelt and significant. The display of tributes on RAW and emotional statements highlight the impact the two had on their colleagues and supporters alike. As the company looks toward filling gaps left by their absence—especially within alliances like The Judgment Day—the wrestling community continues to follow updates closely.
The future remains uncertain for R-Truth and Carlito, but their contributions to WWE have earned them lasting respect among peers and a loyal fan base. The recent tributes, especially those seen backstage and on social media, illustrate just how much these superstars have shaped the current landscape of professional wrestling, ensuring their legacies will be remembered by both the company and the fans.
