Seeing superstars walk out the door of WWE is never easy,
even from a fan’s perspective. Sure we may not have liked some of the wrestlers
in question, but they’re leaving the biggest wrestling company in the world and
are choosing to step into the unknown. For some, it turns out to be the best
decision they’ve ever made. Meanwhile, others often find themselves begging to
return.Of course whether or not the superstars were released at their own
request or simply because WWE didn’t have any need for them anymore varies from
case to case. In 2016, for example, several names were given their marching
orders, and not all of them were too happy about it. That’s why we’re here to
examine how some of the bigger casualties have fared since that fateful
day.Obviously, the success stories tend to be few and far between, but in this
instance, every member of this list has found a way to thrive in one way or
another. That may not necessarily be courtesy of professional wrestling, but
they should recognise that Vince was the man who gave them the platform to
thrive on a bigger stage.
Ryback
The Big Guy is probably one of the most outspoken former
employees that WWE has ever had, and that’s covering some serious ground. The
NXT standout has had a string of interesting things to say about the company
since leaving shortly after WrestleMania 32, with his new podcast probably
being the most notable thing he’s done since leaving.The former
Intercontinental Champion has popped up in a few independent promotions here
and there, but he hasn’t actually made any kind of impact as of yet from an
in-ring perspective. He’s teased appearances in both ROH and NJPW, but it
remains to be seen as to where Ryback’s career as a professional wrestler will
go next.Bow down to the... former king.
Damien Sandow
The Intellectual Saviour of the Masses is no longer a part
of the WWE family, and he seems pretty happy about that right now. Sandow was
never really given a proper chance to shine on the main roster, despite being
set up as one of the most interesting characters of the last few decades.
Seriously, the guy is one of the best promo artists they’ve had in years.When
it comes to his career on the independents, however, things haven’t gone as
many would’ve predicted with Sandow recently stating to the press that he isn’t
sure whether or not he’ll ever wrestle again. This comes after a stint as the
Grand Champion in Impact Wrestling, with Damien recently being offered a
significant movie role with Lionsgate.
Cody Rhodes
Cody Rhodes should’ve left the WWE a long time ago, and the
man himself has even admitted that his father gave him the same advice shortly
after WrestleMania 28. The youngster has flourished since breaking out on his
own, making some serious noise in promotions all over the world including ROH,
WCPW, NJPW and many more.Rhodes continues to win championships left right and
centre, with his initial list of desired opponents leading to several great
matches thus far. If he keeps this up, WWE will have no choice but to once
again take notice of Cody which could potentially lead to a return somewhere
down the line. As of right now though, he seems more than happy with his
current situation.You’re welcome.
Alberto Del Rio
‘Bitter’ may well be the best way to describe good old
Alberto after his second exit from World Wrestling Entertainment. The
multi-time World Champion was released from the company after a wellness policy
violation, with his ongoing relationship with WWE superstar Paige continuing to
cause problems for both parties in their careers.
From a wrestling perspective, however, Del Rio has done
pretty well for himself with a string of appearances to his name on the
independent circuit. In terms of notable victories, Alberto has captured both
the TNA World Heavyweight Championship and the GFW Global Championship within a
short space of time. Good for you, Captain Arrogant.Smoke and mirrors...
Wade Barrett
Wade Barrett had so much potential within the WWE, and while
this isn’t intended to be a “what could’ve been” list, it is worth thinking
about if only for a few moments. Mr Bad News has been relatively quiet since
leaving the company, choosing to focus on his blossoming acting career as
opposed to getting back inside the squared circle.Barrett was even supposed to
be Undertaker’s original opponent at WrestleMania 27. That would undoubtedly
have been a career changing match for himHowever, he does have a UK Bullhammer
Tour coming up with Inside The Ropes which is bound to create some headlines
within the dirtsheets. Barrett has already promised to talk about everything
from The Nexus to The Corre, and we’ll hopefully be able to hear his thoughts
on why he never became a World Champion.
Written by Harry Kettle
www.twitter.com/HJKettle
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