Ricardo Rodriguezs WWE departure in 2014 wasnt just shockingit left the former announcer and wrestler feeling bitter about how the company handled it. Now, Rodriguez is setting the record straight, revealing that while he asked for his release, WWEs decision to leak the news early didnt sit well with him.
During an interview with Chris Van Vliet, Rodriguez opened up about the circumstances surrounding his exit. After spending years as Alberto Del Rios charismatic announcer and later transitioning to Spanish commentary, Rodriguez admitted he was struggling with depression and financial issues.
So, I never got released; I asked for it, Rodriguez clarified. At the time, I had already been separated from Alberto, and I was doing Spanish commentary, but I wasnt feeling it. I wasnt happy. I was going through a lot of depression, and I wasnt making the same money I had been making before. I had a lot of discussions with the office, with [Mark] Carrano, but we just couldnt get anywhere.
The situation came to a head when Rodriguez refused to board a WWE flight, staying home instead. He called Carrano to explain his frustrations, which ultimately led to his release. I said, Hey, Im still at home. Im not coming in. He asked, Are you okay? and I said, Yeah, Ive tried talking to you a few times, and its just not going anywhere.
Rodriguez continued, He called me back on Wednesday around 5 oclock and said, Hey, I just talked to Paul [Triple H] and Vince, and were going to grant you the release. Youre always welcome to come back.
Despite the professional tone of their conversations, Rodriguez was blindsided when WWE leaked news of his release before he had the chance to announce it himself. I thought it was an agreement we had. I wasnt going to trash them publicly, but I also wasnt expecting them to leak it. Thats what hurt the most, he said.
Rodriguez, who was only 29 at the time, believed he still had plenty to offer the wrestling world but ultimately felt his mental health and happiness had to come first.
Although Ricardo Rodriguezs WWE chapter ended under strained circumstances, he remains thankful for the opportunities he had. As for the bitterness? Its a work in progress.
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