Why WWE Let R-Truth’s Contract Expire in 2025

Triple H has set the record straight on R-Truth’s brief WWE departure in 2025, and it turns out the situation was never meant to lead to a full exit.

Speaking on the January 20, 2026 episode of WWE Unreal Season 2, Triple H explained that as R-Truth’s contract was nearing its end, WWE and Truth were far apart on terms, and communication between the two sides started to break down. Rather than force the issue, WWE opted to let the contract lapse, hoping it would spark a conversation.

“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 things differently.”

Triple H clarified that WWE never intended to fire Truth or push him out. The hope was that by allowing the deal to expire without immediate renewal, it would prompt R-Truth to reopen dialogue.

“So it became, ‘Okay, if you’re not going to come to us, then Truth, we’re going to let your contract lapse. Your deal is ending, and we’re not going to renew it.’ The hope was that this might force his hand and make him say, ‘Hold on a second, can we talk?’”

Instead, R-Truth took to social media and announced that he had been let go—something Triple H says wasn’t accurate.

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

Triple H stressed that there was never a desire from WWE to part ways with Truth. The goal was always to find common ground and bring him back: “No one really wanted him to leave. All we wanted was to reach an amicable place.”

That’s exactly what happened. R-Truth later returned to WWE in dramatic fashion at Money in the Bank 2025 and signed a four-year deal with a three-year option, showing that despite the behind-the-scenes missteps, WWE still sees major value in the longtime veteran.

Do you think R-Truth’s contract lapse was just a case of miscommunication—or should WWE have handled things more directly? Drop your thoughts in the comments.

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