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On Sunday, WWE veteran R-Truth (real name Ron Killings) announced that the company had released him after a 17-year run with the company. The news sent shockwaves through the wrestling world and led both fans and WWE talent to express their concerns over the future of the company.
R-Truth, who is 54 years old, had a brief run in the company from 1999-2001 before returning in 2008 and embarking on a 17-year run where he served in various roles. He was widely considered one of the most beloved backstage figures as well and his comedic spots regularly went viral.
Im sorry to inform you all. I just got released from WWE. I want to thank WWE for the ride, but MOSTLY I want to thank each and EVERYONE OF YOU who was along for the ride, Thank you for all the love, support, and appreciation you have given me over the years. Thank you 🙏🏾
— Ron Killings (@RonKillings) June 1, 2025
WWE Fans And Talent Speak Out On Behalf Of R-Truth Following News Of His Release
Following the news of his relief, some in the wrestling world fear the TKO Group, which purchased the WWE in 2023, might be out of touch with fans and talent.
“I hope they start listening because it’s no longer just a few people saying this. It can’t always be about every dollar you can make,” former WWE and ESPN commentator Jonathan Coachman posted on X. “The R Truth situation I know there are other factors in play but if you get rid of a GREAT locker room guy who is universally loved by everyone sometimes it’s worth keeping them. House shows also used to save guys like Truth but now those don’t exist so if you aren’t a tv performer you better watch out. Sad day for wrestling fans who love to laugh.”
Even John Cena, the current WWE champion who recently faced R-Truth at the “Saturday Night’s Main Event” show, took to Instagram to show his displeasure.
Pat McAfee did the same on X, as did current WWE wrestlers Bayley, Big E, Rusev and several others. Could R-Truth return at a later date on a restructured contract? Sure. But for the time being, it seems as if TKO made a brutal unforced error that isn’t sitting well with fans or its own talent.