How WWE Superstars Really Feel Backstage About R-Truth’s Release

R-Truth’s sudden departure from WWE has created shockwaves throughout the company – and may impact how other Superstars deal with the company in the future. Truth, whose real name is Ronnie Aaron Killings, was a much-loved veteran in the locker room, having spent 19 years in WWE across two separate stints.

The veteran was admired by both colleagues and fans alike for his work ethic, longevity, and comedic timing. So valued was the 53-year-old by his peers that there was genuine disbelief when Killings confirmed the news of his exit on social media on Sunday.

Although the Superstar himself stated that he had been released by WWE, it has since emerged that the promotion opted not to renew his contract when it expires. As a result, R-Truth will not be subject to the standard 90-day non-compete clause that typically applies when a main roster performer departs the company.

R-Truth’s WWE career statistics (as of 02/06/2025)

Total number of matches
1511

Total number of wins
901 (59.6%)

Total number of losses
597 (39.5%)

Total number of draws
13 (0.9%)

R-Truth’s WWE Release Met With Disbelief Backstage

Some Superstars assumed the news was a joke

Credit: WWE
Credit: WWE
Credit: WWE

Per a report from PWInsider’s Mike Johnson, the decision to allow the 53-time 24/7 Champion to walk away has created a “feeling of uncertainty” backstage. A number of Superstars were so taken aback when hearing the news they actually thought it was “an April fools’ joke being made three months late” by Truth himself.

Others have chosen to look at the shock decision as a warning, with one veteran pointing to it as proof that nothing is guaranteed when it comes to WWE and its parent company, TKO. Another unnamed Superstar declared that they would be looking to agree their next contract “well in advance” in order to avoid being put in the situation that truth found himself in as his deal ran down.

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A final performer paid tribute to R-Truth’s talent and versatility by pointing out:

“Truth could be inserted into any situation – be it a match, vignette, etc. – and it was always going to work!”

In the aftermath of his release, fans have been reminiscing over his many memorable moments in a WWE ring – including the time he made the notoriously expressionless Brock Lesnar break character on live television. Just as his fans are devastated, though, so are Truth’s now-former colleagues, with dozens of Superstars taking to social media to express their shock and send good wishes, including the likes of The Miz, Kevin Owens and Rhea Ripley.

Truth’s release comes off the back of a cull of WWE talent in recent times. Former Universal Champion Braun Strowman was just one of the 17 performers let go in May – just weeks after the company smashed a number of financial records following the success of WrestleMania 41 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

While those releases attracted plenty of attention, none were on the level of the response that R-Truth has received since news of his exit broke. He may no longer be a part of the WWE roster, but the sheer amount of love and support towards him means that his next move will be a much-anticipated one. Whichever promotion he wrestles for next has a genuine start on their hands, both in and out of the ring.