Legendary WWE wrestler released leaving fellow competitors heartbroken and shocked | Other | Sport

WWE aficionados are reeling from the shock announcement that cherished wrestling icon R-Truth has been let go by the organisation.

His final bow in the WWE ring was just over a week ago at the Saturday Night’s Main Event in Tampa, Florida, where he faced off against WWE champ John Cena in a non-title scrap.

The veteran grappler, real-life Ron Killings, made his WWE entrance as K-Kwik back in 1999. He first left the company in 2001 for a stint with TNA, but made his WWE comeback in 2008 and has been a mainstay ever since.

Despite often being in the mid-card mix, Killings shone under the spotlight on multiple occasions, bagging the United States, hardcore, and tag-team championships twice during his tenure with WWE.

Taking to social media on Sunday, he shared the news: “I’m sorry to inform you all. I just got released from WWE. I want to thank WWE for the ride, but mostly I want to thank each and every one of you who was along for the ride, Thank you for all the love, support, and appreciation you have given me over the years. Thank you.”

NFL legend and ‘Monday Night Raw’ commentator Pat McAfee expressed his sorrow online, penning: “I love Ron Killings. It’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.”

Wrestling icon Brian James, known to fans as Road Dogg, has expressed his sorrow over recent events, stating: “I am heartbroken. It’s the nature of the beast; the part of business that no one likes but the bean counters. I love Ron ‘The Truth’ Killings and I don’t care who knows it. What a run!”

Rhea Ripley, two-time WWE women’s champion, shared her feelings by saying: “In all seriousness, this is literally so heartbreaking. Thank you Truth.”

Carmelo Hayes, former NXT champion, paid tribute with his words: “Thank you for everything you’ve done for the business, the doors you opened and being a real O.G. to the whole locker room. Taught me a lot about the game and how to navigate this business. Ron Killings is timeless!”

Richochet, once a WWE star and now an AEW competitor, also chimed in, adding: “You’re an amazing talent and an even better person. Go enjoy your life unc!”