5 WWE Superstars who requested their release

#4 WWE Superstar - Maria

Former WWE Superstar Maria was one of the most famous names on the women's roster. She was the Diva of the year in 2009 and is a one-time 24/7 Champion.

Maria and her husband Mike Kanellis had requested their release in January 2019 from WWE. They felt they were not being used properly. Ryan Satin of ProWrestling Sheet reported the following:

"Pro Wrestling Sheet has learned Mike and Maria Kannellis recently asked for WWE officials to release them from their contracts. Sources tell us the Kanellis’ have been unhappy with the way they’ve been used in WWE for awhile and finally made the decision a few weeks ago to request their releases."

Unfortunately for the Kanellis', the promotion didn't grant their request, and like Rusev, they were only let go in April 2020 due to pandemic-related budget cuts.

#3 WWE Superstar - Gran Metalik

Former WWE Superstar Gran Metalik was a member of the now-defunct Lucha House Party.

In one of his biggest career achievements, the Luchador won a Fatal-Fourway match to become the #1 contender for AJ Styles Intercontinental Championship in July 2020. Metalik, unfortunately, came up short in claiming the title. He is a former 24/7 Champion as well.

In September 2021, Metalik had asked for his release citing unhappiness with how he was being used. The company eventually released him on November 4.

Metalik was optimistic about his immediate future after his release, with the aforementioned Twitter post. It remains to be seen where he goes next after his 90-day non-compete clause is over.