The Most Unexpected WWE Superstars to Get Fired

The WWE is home to some of the most talented and charismatic wrestlers in the world. It’s a platform where many superstars rise to fame, but it also has its fair share of unexpected departures. Over the years, WWE has made decisions that left fans scratching their heads, with some dismissals coming out of nowhere. The reasons for a superstar’s exit vary, from backstage politics to personal issues or even creative differences. But there are some names whose firing stunned the WWE Universe, leaving a lasting impact on the company’s legacy.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most surprising WWE firings that caught fans and the industry by complete surprise.

1. Wade Barrett – A Rising Star Cut Too Soon

Wade Barrett’s WWE career looked promising from the start. As the leader of the Nexus, he was positioned to be one of the next big stars in the company. His imposing presence, combined with strong mic skills and solid in-ring ability, made him an ideal candidate to lead the faction that would change the face of WWE. However, despite the buzz around him, Barrett’s WWE career took an unexpected downturn.

The Nexus angle fizzled out, and Barrett’s push was no longer as strong. Still, his potential was undeniable, and many believed he could have been a top heel for years to come. But in 2016, Wade Barrett’s contract came to an end, and the WWE opted not to renew it, leaving fans amazed. Reports suggested that Barrett’s dissatisfaction with his creative direction and WWE’s unwillingness to give him the push he deserved played a role in his departure. Even though Barrett had some memorable moments, such as his run as the Intercontinental Champion, his firing left many wondering what could have been if the company had fully invested in his talent.

2. CM Punk – The Ultimate Exit from WWE

CM Punk’s departure from WWE in 2014 remains one of the most talked-about exits in wrestling history. Punk was a fan favorite who had climbed the ranks in WWE through hard work and perseverance, eventually capturing the WWE Championship. His rise to the top was a feel-good story, and his promos, particularly the “Pipe Bomb,” became legendary.

However, Punk’s issues with WWE management became more apparent over time. Creative disagreements, frustration with how he was being booked, and health concerns led to a publicized fallout. His last appearance came at the Royal Rumble in 2014, and shortly after, he was gone from WWE, leaving the company without one of its top stars. Punk’s departure was huge to fans, as many believed he was on the brink of becoming the face of the company for years to come.

CM Punk’s exit wasn’t just unexpected; it was also a turning point for the WWE. Fans quickly turned against the company, and his absence left a hole in the roster that took a long time to fill. While Punk’s time with WWE was marked by great success, his departure was a definitive moment in WWE history.

3. Rusev – A Superstar Left Behind in the Shuffle

Rusev, known for his dominant run as the Bulgarian Brute, was one of WWE’s most promising foreign heels. His rise to prominence was fast and furious, with his undefeated streak during his early years in WWE setting him up as a future top star. His pairing with Lana, his wife and manager, only added to his appeal, as the duo delivered one of the most compelling acts in recent memory.

Despite his success, Rusev was released from WWE in 2020, surprising fans who believed he had more to give to the company. While his character and in-ring ability made him one of the most intriguing talents on the roster, WWE seemed to lose interest in him over time. In recent years, Rusev had been relegated to mid-card storylines and was never able to reach the heights many believed he deserved.

Reports suggested that his release was due to a combination of factors, including a lack of direction for his character and Rusev’s own frustration with the booking of his persona. The decision to let him go left many confused, especially after his previous runs with titles and his fanbase’s unwavering support. His departure also marked the end of his on-screen relationship with Lana, which had garnered much attention. Despite his firing, Rusev’s post-WWE career continues to flourish in AEW, but the circumstances surrounding his release still make his departure an unforgettable moment in WWE history.

4. Mickie James – A Career Cut Short?

Mickie James has long been regarded as one of the most talented female wrestlers in WWE’s history. Her ability in the ring and her charisma helped her establish a legacy in the women’s division. Over the years, she was part of some of the most iconic moments in women’s wrestling, including her rivalry with Trish Stratus and her multiple Women’s Championship reigns.

However, in 2021, Mickie James was released from her WWE contract in a move that took the wrestling world by surprise. Despite being a veteran and having a solid fan following, her exit seemed out of nowhere. Mickie’s firing came during a wave of releases in the company, which many fans viewed as part of WWE’s ongoing cost-cutting measures. Her departure was especially hard given her long tenure and the experience she brought to the table.

James’ release was not due to a lack of talent, but rather a disconnect between her and WWE management at the time. Mickie herself made her feelings known in the aftermath, publicly addressing the circumstances and the decision. While she moved on to other wrestling promotions, Mickie’s exit was a reminder of how even the most established names can be let go in the cutthroat world of WWE.

Final Thoughts

WWE’s decision to part ways with these superstars left fans stunned, and the ripple effects of their departures continue to be felt. The company has made some surprising decisions throughout its history, and while not every firing makes sense at the time, it’s clear that WWE’s ever-evolving nature sometimes leads to the unexpected. For fans, these departures often raise more questions than answers, leaving behind a sense of what could have been had these superstars been given more time to shine. Each firing carries its own unique story, but one thing is clear—these departures were some of the most unexpected in WWE history.