WWE Rejecting Andrade’s Release Request Proves They View AEW As Competition Claims Jim Ross

WWE Superstar Andrade had a tremendous run in NXT as he competed in many great matches and also won the NXT Championship. However, his main roster run didn’t turn out as successful and he eventually floundered there.

Andrade eventually asked for his release last week and it was not granted by WWE. While speaking on the Grilling JR podcast, WWE Hall Of Famer Jim Ross gave his thoughts regarding Andrade’s situation. Ross admitted he was surprised any pro wrestler would ask for their release during the pandemic.

“I am surprised that during this climate, COVID climate, that people are asking for their release. I don’t know who else, maybe or not; I don’t know. You damn sure don’t want to ask for a release unless you’ve got somewhere to go and where you can establish some stability, financial security. I don’t know if he has that or he doesn’t have that.”

Jim Ross then noted that WWE rejecting Andrade’s request release is undeniable proof that Vince McMahon views AEW as competition.

“So, a little surprised. To me, unless you’ve thought it out and you’ve got a good long-range plan already in place, it’s probably not the smartest thing to do. If it’s an act of defiance, or an act of ‘I’m angry,’ or ‘I’m disappointed, whatever the case may be, that’s probably not the right reason to ask for a release, especially if you don’t have somewhere to go. So, I don’t know where he would go. I can see WWE; it recognizes, to me, it says WWE is keenly aware of AEW and that we are not the p*** ant company that Triple H said we were going to be at the beginning.”

Andrade hasn’t been seen on WWE television since October of last year. We will have to see whether he will make his return eventually or if Andrade will be granted his release.