Cain Velasquez The Latest Talent To Be Released By WWE, Rumors As To Why

The latest release, as is being reported on Tuesday, is a huge MMA crossover star that was never quite used to his potential by WWE — Cain Velasquez.

After only one televised match with the company and a debut match at a pay-per-view for a title, the former UFC fighter has been released from his contract in what can only be viewed as a major cost-cutting move.

The Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer was first to report the news and outlets like Pro Wrestling Sheet has since confirmed the release with sources. More information is not available but the assumption is that he is part of the pool of talent who have been released amidst concerns over financial strains due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Velasquez made his first appearance when WWE debuted its first SmackDown show on the FOX network and surprised the world by confronting former adversary Brock Lesnar. He later went on to battle Lesnar at WWE Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia. He lost that match in a matter of seconds.

Velasquez was quickly put on the shelf, in part because of an injury suffered in November and also because he was green as a WWE performer. More specifically, his punches didn't look all that believable. Speculation was that he would keep training and there were a couple times he was rumored to return but didn't. All the while, he was likely being paid quite well as someone brought in to boost ratings.

Some speculation was that he might have been avoiding required surgery, further delaying any possible return.

No One Is Safe

Prior to Velasquez being released, WWE was really only letting enhancement talents go. This may be considered the first case where a huge star with real drawing power has been released. But, the move likely makes big sense financially because Velasquez was rumored to be making good money.

Others believe all plans for him vs. Lesnar had been dropped which basically meant he had no real purpose or direction in WWE moving forward.

Next: WWE Star Pulled From Money in the Bank PPV Due To Injury