Triple H Reveals R-Truth Was Never Released from WWE

WWE’s R-Truth might’ve surprised fans with his return at Money in the Bank 2025—but the real drama happened behind the scenes, and now Triple H is clearing the air.

In a sneak peek from WWE Unreal Season 2 released on January 19, 2026, Triple H confirmed that R-Truth was never actually released from the company—despite his own social media post at the time claiming otherwise. The issue? A breakdown in contract talks and miscommunication. Triple H explained that WWE and Truth hit a financial stalemate during renewal talks, and while the company let his contract lapse, they never formally terminated him.

“We got to a point in Truth’s run where his contract was coming up. When you’re dealing with contracts and money, and you’re very far apart on the numbers and communication breaks down, it’s very easy for both sides to read into the communications differently.

Okay, well, if you’re not going to come to us, then, Truth, we’re going to let your contract lapse. Your contract is at the end. We’re not going to renew.’ Knowing that, hopefully, maybe, this will force his hand to say ‘well, hold on a second, can we talk?”

He added that the lapse was intended to lead to further negotiation, not an exit—but R-Truth assumed otherwise and went public.

“He immediately went out on social media and said he was fired, which he was never fired. Contrary to prior belief, he was never not under contract with us.”

R-Truth recalled being heartbroken by what he thought was a release. He admitted he took the call as confirmation that WWE no longer wanted him.

“I got the call that my contract wasn’t gonna be renewed, and I’m like, ‘So, am I released? Am I…?’ I took it as I was released. I just… I was hurt.”

WWE executive and SmackDown creative lead Brian “Road Dogg” James weighed in too, saying that while it was difficult emotionally, the call made business sense given R-Truth’s age and uncertain return timeline.

“While it broke my heart, it made perfect business sense to not renew his contract. At his age, you might not get that reward back.”

Fortunately, the story didn’t end there. R-Truth eventually re-signed with WWE on a four-year deal with a three-year option, returning in a big way and showing fans—and executives—he’s still got gas in the tank.

How do you feel about how WWE handled R-Truth’s contract situation? Should the company have been clearer, or was it just business? Sound off in the comments and let us know your take.

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