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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.
With all of that being said, here are five WWE superstars released in 2016 and where they are now.
#1 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.
#2 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 him
However, 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.
Si! Si! Si!
#3 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.
Also read: 5 Superstars the company needs to release now
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...
#4 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.
#5 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.
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