5 Times WWE Superstars were surprised by the release of their colleagues 

#3. The Big Show joined AEW following his WWE release

After 22 years in WWE, The Big Show made the shock decision to walk away from the company earlier this year. He went on to join their rivals AEW.

The Big Show's contract was coming to an end and WWE wanted the former Champion to re-sign. But after RAW Legends Night back in January, where The Big Show appeared on-screen with Randy Orton, he made the decision to walk away.

The Big Show was seen as one of WWE's most loyal stars after spending two decades with the company where he had been part of some of their biggest storylines. His move to AEW came from out of nowhere and whilst the WWE Universe were shocked that he was able to pull it off without any leaks, the WWE locker room was also caught by surprise.

Former WWE Superstar Cody Rhodes reacted to The Big Show's move over to AEW. He made it clear that he was looking forward to working with the former WWE Champion in the future.

According to a report by Fightful, the WWE lock room was caught off guard. Several current WWE stars were unaware that The Big Show was on his way out of the company.

Ric Flair and Kurt Angle later went on to reveal that there was some frustration for The Big Show behind the scenes in WWE. This could be why he opted to join AEW following his appearance on RAW Legends Night:

“I didn’t see it coming, and I’m sure they [AEW] must have made him a spectacular deal over there,” said Flair. “Do I wish had would stay with us personally? Yes. At the same time, he has earned my respect, and I think he has earned the respect of everybody and should be able to make whatever choice he wants.”

Vince McMahon reportedly understood why The Big Show made the move. He even called him the day that he signed with AEW and thanked him for his contributions to WWE over the years.