This is a list of professional wrestlers, managers and other workers that were employed in World Wrestling Entertainment from:
- 1952–1963 (as the Capitol Wrestling Corporation)
- 1963–1979 (as the World Wide Wrestling Federation)
- 1979–2002 (as the World Wrestling Federation)
- 2002–present time (as World Wrestling Entertainment)
Early years[]
| Release date | Real Name | Ring Name(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1960 | Maurice Catarcio | The Matador | Retired |
| 1960 | Edward Gossett | Eddie Graham | Went to NWA |
| 1963 | Antonino Rocca | Antonino Rocca | |
| 1963 | Herman C. Rohde, Jr. | "Nature Boy" Buddy Rogers | |
| 1969 | Ed Farhat | The Sheik | |
| 1970 | Edward McDaniel | Wahoo McDaniel | |
| 1972 | Karl Istaz | Karl Gotch | |
| 1972 | Camille Tourville | Tarzan Tyler | |
| 1974 | Fred Blassie | "Classy" Freddie Blassie | Retired from wrestling to focus on being a manager. |
| 1974 | Miguel Feliciano | Miguel Feliciano | |
| 1975 | James Dudley | James Dudley | |
| 1976 | Kevin Sullivan | Kevin Sullivan | Released |
| 1977 | Wladek Kowalski | Killer Kowalski | Retired |
| 1978 | Charles Kalani, Jr. | Professor Toru Tanaka | |
| 1978 | George Stipich | Stan "The Man" Stasiak | |
| 1979 | Scott Irwin | Yukon Eric | |
| 1979 | James Parris | Ivan Koloff | |
| 1979 | Vincent J. McMahon | Vincent J. McMahon | Retired as owner of the WWWF and sold it to his son, Vincent K. McMahon. |
| 1979 | Jimmy Valen | Jimmy Valiant |
World Wrestling Federation era[]
1980s[]
| Release date | Real Name | Ring Name(s) | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1980 | Ernie Ladd | "Big Cat" Ernie Ladd | - | |
| 1980 | Bill White | Wild Bill White | ||
| 1981 | Lawrence Whistler | Larry Zbyszko | ||
| 1981 | Ed White | Moondog King | ||
| 1982 | Eddie Gilbert | "Hot Stuff" Eddie Gilbert | ||
| 1982 | Lanny Kean | Moondog Cujo | ||
| 1982 | Paul McWight | Moondog Rover | Released | |
| 1983 | Tatsumi Fujinami | Tatsumi Fujinami | Left the WWF after he lost the WWF Junior Heavyweight Championship in order to resume wrestling in Japan. | |
| 1983 | Masa Saito | Masa Saito | Released | |
| 1983 | Bill Smithson | Moondog Spike | ||
| 1984 | Stan Hansen | Stan Hansen | ||
| 1984 | Houston Harris | Bobo Brazil | ||
| 1984 | Bruce Woyan | "Bulldog" Buzz Sawyer | ||
| 1984 | Mikel Scicluna | "Baron" Mikel Scicluna | Retired | |
| 1984 | Ray Stevens | Ray Stevens | ||
| 1985 | Mad Maxine | Mad Maxine | ||
| 1985 | Dick Murdoch | Dick Murdoch | Left company after he and Adrian Adonis lost the World Tag Team Championship. | |
| 1985 | Dewey Robertson | The Missing Link | ||
| 1985 | Johnny Rodz | Johnny Rodz | ||
| 1985 | Buddy Rose | "Playboy" Buddy Rose | ||
| 1985 | Wendy Savinovich | Wendi Richter | ||
| 1985 | David Schultz | "Dr. D" David Schultz | Released after incident with reporter John Stossel. | |
| 1985 | Cyndi Lauper | Cyndi Lauper | Left because it became an increasing distraction to her musical ambitions. | |
| 1986 | Dory Funk, Jr. | Hoss Funk | ||
| 1986 | Stan Frazier | Uncle Elmer | ||
| 1987 | Takeshi Akabane | Little Tokyo | ||
| 1987 | Josef Bednarski | Ivan Putski | ||
| 1987 | Randy Colley | Moondog Rex Demolition Smash |
Left when his plan to compete as Smash of Demolition fell through. | |
| March 31, 1987 | Lionel Giroux | Little Beaver | Ended career after he suffered a back injury in a match with King Kong Bundy. | |
| 1987 | Raymond Kessler | The Haiti Kid | ||
| 1987 | Michael Kirchner | Corporal Kirchner | He failed a drug test and was suspended. Afterwards, Kirchner decided not to return. | |
| 1987 | Larry Latham | Moondog Spot | ||
| 1987 | Pedro Morales | Pedro Morales | He took a job as part of WWF's Spanish announce team before retiring. | |
| 1987 | Barry Orton | Barry O | ||
| 1987 | Debbie Szestecki | Debbie Combs | ||
| 1987 | Eric Tovey | Lord Littlebrook | ||
| 1987 | Robert Windham | Blackjack Mulligan | ||
| June 1987 | Tom Zenk | Tom Zenk | Contract dispute. | |
| July 4, 1987 | Keith Franke | Adrian Adonis | ||
| 1988 | Sika Anoa'i | Sika | ||
| 1988 | Tom Billington | Dynamite Kid | ||
| 1988 | Craig Minervini | Craig DeGeorge | ||
| July 21, 1988 | Brian Blair | B. Brian Blair | Left due to unfulfilled promises to win the Tag Team titles never came to fruition. | |
| September 22, 1988 | Conrad Efraim | S.D. Jones | ||
| 1988 | Sam Fatu | Tama, The Tonga Kid | ||
| 1988 | William Haynes, Jr. | Billy Jack Haynes | ||
| 1988 | John Sutton | Oliver Humperdink | ||
| 1988 | Reginald Lisowski | The Crusher | ||
| 1988 | Velvet Mykietowich | Velvet McIntyre | Left company after the dissolution of the Women's division. | |
| 1988 | Paul Orndorff | "Mr. Wonderful" Paul Orndorff | ||
| 1988 | Ken Patera | Ken Patera | ||
| 1988 | James Raschke | The Baron | ||
| 1988 | Sylvester Ritter | Junkyard Dog, JYD | ||
| 1988 | Bruno Sammartino | Bruno Sammartino | Contract expired. | |
| 1988 | David Sammartino | David Sammartino | Quit the WWF after he realized that his sole reason for employment was so Vince McMahon could get his father to wrestle. | |
| 1988 | Patricia Karisma-Schroeder | Leilani Kai | ||
| 1988 | Michael Smith | Sam Houston | ||
| 1988 | "Superstar" Billy Graham | "Superstar" Billy Graham | ||
| 1988 | Peter Stilsbury | Outback Jack | ||
| 1988 | Noriyo Tateno | Noriyo Tateno | ||
| April 1988 | Bruce Reed | "The Natural" Butch Reed | ||
| August 1988 | Don Muraco | Don Muraco | ||
| 1989 | Tully Blanchard | Tully Blanchard | Was fired after failing a random drug test. | |
| 1989 | Scott Casey | Scott Casey | ||
| 1989 | Jean Gagné | Frenchy Martin | ||
| 1989 | Ronald Herd | "Outlaw" Ron Bass | ||
| 1989 | Melissa Hiatt | Missy Hyatt | ||
| 1989 | John Minton | Big John Studd | ||
| 1989 | Masashi Ozawa | Killer Kahn | ||
| 1989 | Harley Race | Harley Race | ||
| 1989 | Robin Smith | Rockin' Robin | ||
| 1989 | Max Taogaga | Siva Afi | ||
| December 1989 | Tom Lister, Jr. | Zeus |
1990s[]
| Release date | Real Name | Ring Name(s) | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1990 | Roger Barnes | Ronnie Garvin | Released from contract. | |
| 1990 | Allen Coage | Bad News Brown | Left due to claims that Vince McMahon failed to live up to promises. | |
| 1990 | Bill Eadie | Ax, Super Machine | Health problems. | |
| 1990 | George Gray | One Man Gang, Akeem | Released from contract. | |
| 1990 | Hector Guerrero | Gobbledy Gooker | Gimmick Failed | |
| 1990 | James Janos | Jesse Ventura | Left to pursue other interests. | |
| 1990 | Al Perez | Al Perez | Budget cut. | |
| 1990 | Juanita Wright | Sapphire | Storyline ended, was no longer needed | |
| 1990 | Roy Wayne Farris | The Honky Tonk Man | Released after mutual decision. Lawsuit with McMahon followed regarding owning the HTM name/gimmick. | |
| 1991 | Brady Boone | Battle Kat, Brady Boone | Budget cut. | |
| 1991 | Nick Busick | Big Bully Busick | Retired from wrestling. | |
| 1991 | Anthony White | Tony Atlas, Saba Simba | Gimmick did not go as planned. | |
| 1991 | Paul Centopani | Paul Roma | Released from contract. | |
| 1991 | Carly Colón, Sr. | Carlos Colón | Retired from wrestling. | |
| 1991 | Jim Barrell | Boris Zhukov | ||
| 1991 | Pete Doherty | The Duke of Dorchester | ||
| 1991 | Rick Harris | Black Bart | ||
| 1991 | Genichiro Tenryu | Tenryu | ||
| 1991 | Kōji Kitao | Kitao | ||
| 1991 | André Rousimoff | André the Giant, The Giant Machine | Retired because he was too ill to continue wrestling. | |
| 1991 | John Tolos | The Coach | ||
| 1992 | Kerry Adkisson | Texas Tornado, Kerry Von Erich | Fired after failing random drug test. | |
| 1992 | Ray Fernandez | Hercules, Hercules Hernandez | Left the WWF because he was frustrated that he was being used as a jobber too often. He later signed with WCW. | |
| 1992 | Elizabeth Hulette | Miss Elizabeth | Left the WWF shortly after her divorce from Randy Savage. | |
| 1992 | Adnan El Kassey | General Adnan, Billy White Wolf | ||
| 1992 | Andy Kindler | Jamison | ||
| 1992 | Mike McGuirk | Mike McGuirk | Left the WWF after refusing to pose for Penthouse magazine. | |
| 1992 | James Reiher | "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka | ||
| 1992 | Terry Szopinski | The Warlord | Wanted to compete on the independent circuit. | |
| 1992 | Pat Tanaka | Tanaka | ||
| 1992 | John Wisniski, Jr. | Greg "The Hammer" Valentine | ||
| January 1992 | Adolfo Bresciano | Dino Bravo | Retired from wrestling. | |
| December 1992 | Kevin Wacholz | Nailz | Reportedly released after he attacked Vince McMahon over a dispute over money. | |
| 1993 | Charles Ashenoff | Max Moon | Konnan left the WWF following a disagreement with WWF owner Vince McMahon, believing that he was being discriminated against and resenting McMahon's refusal to give him a guaranteed contract | |
| 1993 | Rob Bartlett | Rob Bartlett | ||
| 1993 | Wayne Bloom | Beau Beverly | Went into semi-retirement. | |
| 1993 | Terry Bollea | Hulk Hogan | Left the WWF by mutual agreement; decided to pursue other interests. Later signed with WCW. | |
| 1993 | Tom Boric | Paul Diamond, Kato, Max Moon | His contract was not renewed. | |
| 1993 | James Brunzell | "Jumpin'" Jim Brunzell | ||
| 1993 | Barry Darsow | Smash, Repo Man | ||
| 1993 | Mike Enos | Blake Beverly | Later went to WCW | |
| 1993 | Jorge Gonzáles | Giant Gonzales | Contract expired. | |
| 1993 | Jimmy Hart | Jimmy Hart | Left after McMahon wanted him to take a 50% pay cut. | |
| 1993 | Raymond Heenan | Bobby Heenan | Left after McMahon wanted him to take a 50% pay cut. | |
| 1993 | Steve James | Lance Cassidy | ||
| 1993 | Ken Johnson | Slick, Reverend Slick | Left to concentrate on preaching in his church. | |
| 1993 | Ed Leslie | Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake | Left to go to WCW. | |
| 1993 | Sean Mooney | Sean Mooney | Contract expired. | |
| 1993 | John Nord | The Berzerker, The Viking | ||
| 1993 | Matt Osborne | Doink the Clown (#1), Matt Borne | Fired for constant drug abuse. | |
| 1993 | Lanny Poffo | The Genius, "Leaping" Lanny Poffo | ||
| 1993 | Sherri Russell | "Sensational" Sherri Martel | Fired for not passing a drug test | |
| 1993 | Jerome Saganovich | Jerry Sags | Left with partner for WCW. | |
| 1993 | Merced Solis | Tito Santana, El Matador | Went to ECW | |
| 1993 | Phil Theis | Damien Demento | ||
| 1993 | Brian Yandrisovitz | Brian Knobbs | Left with partner for WCW. | |
| 1994 | Tony Halme | Ludvig Borga | Retired due to injury | |
| 1994 | Jim Harris | Kamala | ||
| 1994 | Bruce Hart | Bruce Hart | Retired | |
| 1994 | Keith Hart | Keith Hart | Retired | |
| 1994 | Heidi Lee Morgan | Heidi Lee Morgan | ||
| 1994 | Fred Ottman | Typhoon, Tugboat | ||
| 1994 | Robert Rechsteiner | Rick Steiner | Left after Vince didn't follow through with his promises. | |
| 1994 | Mike Shaw | Bastion Booger, Friar Ferguson | ||
| 1994 | James Ware | Koko B. Ware | ||
| November 1994 | Randy Poffo | "Macho Man" Randy Savage | Left to go to WCW | |
| 1995 | Afa Anoa'i | Afa | ||
| 1995 | Samula Anoa'i | Samu | Left due to excessive travel schedule. | |
| 1995 | Lou Albano | "Captain" Lou Albano | Retired. | |
| 1995 | Scott Bigelow | Bam Bam Bigelow | Left due to problems with the Clique. | |
| 1995 | Jeff Bradley | Charlie Hunter | ||
| 1995 | Steve Doll | Steven Dunn | ||
| 1995 | Claude Giroux | Dink, Tiger Jackson | ||
| 1995 | Alfred Hayes | Lord Alfred Hayes | Left after getting in a car accident which resulted in him contracting gangrene and being confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his life. | |
| 1995 | Robert Horne | Mo | ||
| 1995 | Mike Jones | Virgil | ||
| 1995 | Stan Lane | Stan Lane | Went into semi-retirement. | |
| 1995 | Ray Liccachelli | Doink the Clown (#2) | ||
| 1995 | Dan Marsh | Dan Marsh, Danny Davis | ||
| 1995 | Troy Martin | Dean Douglas, Shane Douglas | Quit after backstage problems with The Clique. | |
| 1995 | Debra Miceli | Alundra Blayze | Released after talking to WCW under contract. | |
| 1995 | Chris Pallies | King Kong Bundy | Left after feeling his return wasn't as successful as his first WWF run. | |
| 1995 | Josip Peruzović | Nikolai Volkoff | Went into semi-retirement. | |
| 1995 | Darryl Peterson | Man Mountain Rock, Maxx Payne | Released due to his growing drug abuse problems. | |
| 1995 | James Richland | Jimmy Del Ray | ||
| 1995 | Gary Sabaugh | The Italian Stallion | ||
| 1995 | Akio Sato | Sato, Shinja | ||
| 1995 | Joe Scarpa | Chief Jay Strongbow | ||
| 1995 | Dan Spivey | Waylon Mercy, Danny Spivey | Retired after being injured in a match with Kevin Nash. | |
| 1995 | Jack Tunney | Jack Tunney | Retired. | |
| 1995 | Sione Vailahi | The Barbarian, Sionne | ||
| 1995 | Richard Vigneault | "The Model" Rick Martel | ||
| 1995 | Bill Watts | Bill Watts | Had many conflicts with Vince McMahon. | |
| 1995 | Timothy A. Smith | Timothy Well | ||
| September 1, 1995 | Lawrence Pfohl | Lex Luger, The Narcissist | Signed with WCW, breaking his promise to Vince McMahon that he would stay. | |
| January 1996 | William Ansor | Buddy Landel | Left after an injury sustained in a match with Bret Hart. | |
| November 1996 | Marty Jannetty | Marty Jannetty | Requested his release because he was unhappy with the New Rockers' lack of success and management's refusal to break the team up. | |
| 1996 | Chris Candido | Skip | Didn't like his gimmick. He quit. | |
| 1996 | Wayne Cowan | Uncle Zebekiah | ||
| 1996 | Mike Droese | Duke "The Dumpster" Droese | Requested his release because the excessive touring was starting to take its toll. | |
| 1996 | Chad Fortune | Travis | ||
| 1996 | Harry Fujiwara | Mr. Fuji | Left due to excessive travel schedule and knee problems. | |
| 1996 | Terry Gordy | Terry "Bam Bam" Gordy, The Executioner | Released from contract. | |
| 1996 | Robert Miller | Bushwhacker Butch | Released from contract. | |
| 1996 | Louis Mucciolo | Rad Radford, Louie Spicolli | Released after suffering severe seizures from a drug overdose. | |
| 1996 | Kensuke Shinzaki | Hakushi | ||
| 1996 | Warrior | The Ultimate Warrior | Contract was terminated after several no-shows. | |
| 1996 | Erik Watts | Troy | Released from contract. | |
| 1996 | Brian Wickens | Bushwhacker Luke | Released from contract. | |
| 1997 | Tony Anthony | TL Hopper, Uncle Cletus | ||
| 1997 | Robert Bedard | Rene Goulet | ||
| 1997 | Scott Bednarski | Scott Putski | ||
| 1997 | Rick Bogner | Fake Razor Ramon | Gimmick failed. | |
| 1997 | Jamie Crookshanks | J.C. Ice | ||
| 1997 | Sid Eudy | Sycho Sid, Sid Justice | ||
| 1997 | Roy Wayne Farris | The Honky Tonk Man | Released after mutual agreement with the WWF. Wanted to pursue Indy bookings. | |
| 1997 | Doug Furnas | Doug Furnas | ||
| 1997 | James Hines | Bobby Fulton | ||
| 1997 | Barry Horowitz | Barry Horowitz | ||
| 1997 | Barney Irwin | The Goon | ||
| 1997 | Phil Lafleur | Phil Lafon | ||
| 1997 | Herman Stevens | Clarence Mason | Released from contract. | |
| 1997 | Masanori Murakawa | The Great Sasuke | ||
| 1997 | Todd Pettengill | Todd Pettengill | Decided to leave the company after the grind of juggling his WWF duties and his radio career were proving to be too hectic. | |
| 1997 | Alex Porteau | Alex "The Pug" Porteau | ||
| 1997 | Aurelian Smith, Jr. | Jake "The Snake" Roberts | Released after failing drug tests. | |
| 1997 | Richard Rood | "Ravishing" Rick Rude | Left for WCW. | |
| 1997 | * Unknown | The Commandant | ||
| 1997 | Khosrow Vaziri | Iron Sheik, Col. Mustafa | ||
| 1997 | Kelly Wolfe | Wolfie D | ||
| January 1997 | Guadalupe Robledo | Jose Lothario | ||
| November 1997 | Bret Hart | Bret "The Hitman" Hart | Left after the incident at Survivor Series 1997 known as the Montreal Screwjob. | |
| December 1997 | Jim Neidhart | Jim "the Anvil" Neidhart, Who | Left WWF a month after the Montreal Screwjob. | |
| 1998 | Achim Albrecht | Brakkus | ||
| 1998 | Rodney Anoa'i | Yokozuna | He was unable to pass a physical required for professional wrestlers and was released. | |
| 1998 | Tom Brandi | Salvatore Sincere, Tom Brandi | Left company after months of not being pushed. | |
| 1998 | Joseph Bruce | Violent J | Left company after Vince McMahon refused to air Insane Clown Posse commercials on WWF programming. | |
| 1998 | Don Callis | The Jackyl | ||
| 1998 | Robert Fuller | Tennessee Lee | ||
| 1998 | Mike Hallick | Mantaur, Tank | ||
| 1998 | Michael Hegstrand | Hawk | Left after a strong dislike to his current storyline. | |
| 1998 | Brian Lee | Chainz, (Evil) Undertaker | Released from contract. | |
| 1998 | Pablo Marquez | Babu | ||
| 1998 | Anthony Norris | Ahmed Johnson | Released after his wrestling style had begun to cause injury to his opponents. | |
| 1998 | Takeo Otsuka | Mens Teioh | ||
| 1998 | Luc Poirier | Sniper | ||
| 1998 | Juan Rivera | Savio Vega, Kwang | Released from contract. | |
| 1998 | Shigeki Sato | Dick Togo | ||
| 1998 | Joseph Utsler | Shaggy 2 Dope | Left company after Vince McMahon refused to air Insane Clown Posse commercials on WWF programming. | |
| 1998 | Wally Yamaguchi | Yamaguchi-San | Quietly left. | |
| May 1998 | Tammy Lynn Sytch | Sunny, Tamara Murphy | Left the WWF for ECW. | |
| July 1998 | Ricky Morton | Ricky Morton | ||
| August 1998 | Del Wilkes | The Patriot | ||
| September 1998 | Shian-Li Tsang | Mrs. Yamaguchi-San | ||
| October 1998 | Jesus Castillo, Jr. | Jesus Castillo | ||
| October 1998 | Jose Estrada, Jr. | Jose Estrada, Jr. | ||
| October 1998 | Miguel Pérez, Jr. | Miguel Perez | ||
| October 25, 1998 | Leon White | Vader | Left after contract expired. | |
| 1999 | Christopher Daniels | Conquistador Dos | ||
| 1999 | Michael Durham | Johnny Grunge | Was not received well by the rest of the WWF roster. | |
| 1999 | Paul Ellering | Paul Ellering | Retired. | |
| 1999 | James Myers | George "The Animal" Steele | ||
| 1999 | Ted Petty | "Flyboy" Rocco Rock | Was not received well by the rest of the WWF roster. | |
| 1999 | Mike Polchlopek | Bart Gunn, Bodacious Bart | Released from contract. | |
| 1999 | Alicia Webb | Ryan Shamrock | Released from contract. | |
| February 1999 | John Tenta | Earthquake, Golga | Oddities gimmick didn't go as planned. | |
| April 1999 | Don Harris | Don Harris, Jared Grimm, Jacob Blu, 8-Ball | Released from contract. | |
| April 1999 | Ron Harris | Ron Harris, Jason Grimm, Eli Blu, Skull | Released from contract. | |
| April 1999 | Dan Severn | Dan "The Beast" Severn | Released from contract. | |
| May 1999 | Marcus Merowitz | Marc Mero | Budget cut. | |
| July 19, 1999 | Nicole Bass | Nicole Bass | Left after claiming she was sexually harassed. | |
| September 1999 | Marianna Komlos | Marianna, Mrs. Cleavage | Released from contract. | |
| September 1999 | Paulo da Silva | Giant Silva | Released from contract. | |
| October 5, 1999 | Vince Russo | Vince Russo | Left after having a falling out with Vince McMahon over the increased workload placed upon him. Joined WCW. | |
| October 16, 1999 | Jeff Jarrett | Jeff Jarrett | Contract expired. Mr. McMahon forgot to renew it. | |
| November 1999 | Robert Maillet | Kurrgan, The Interrogator | Released in order to pursue an acting career. | |
| November 1999 | Ken Shamrock | Ken Shamrock | Left to resume his MMA career. |
Early 2000s[]
| Release date | Real Name | Ring Name(s) | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | Bob Backlund | Bob Backlund | Released from contract. | |
| 2000 | Rebecca Budig | Rebecca Budig | ||
| 2000 | Duane Gill | Gillberg | Released from contract. | |
| 2000 | Glen Ruth | Thrasher | Retired | |
| 2000 | Jason Traverse | Jason Sensation | ||
| January 2000 | Carl Ouellet | Jean Pierre LaFitte/Pierre | Contract expired. | |
| January 2000 | Jacques Rougeau | The Mountie | Released from contract. | |
| February 2000 | Gertrude Vachon | Luna Vachon | Released from her contract due to allegedly taping the mouth of a producer shut. | |
| March 2000 | Curtis Hughes | Mr. Hughes | Released from contract. | |
| May 30, 2000 | David Smith | The British Bulldog, Davey Boy Smith | Had prescription drug problems. | |
| June 2000 | Cathy Dingman | Barbara Bush (B.B.) | Released from contract. | |
| July 2000 | Vic Grimes | Key | Released from contract. | |
| September 2000 | Caryn Mower | Muffy Mower | Released due to lack of storyline ideas for her character. | |
| October 2000 | Dennis Knight | Mideon, Phineas I. Godwinn, Dennis Knight | Released from contract. | |
| November 3, 2000 | Frostee Moore | Mandy | Released from contract. | |
| December 2000 | Brian Gerard James | Road Dogg, Jesse James, Roadie | Released after showing up for a Raw show in an "unfit work state" due to drug use. | |
| December 2000 | Cynthia Lynch | Bobcat | Released from her contract. | |
| 2001 | Sara Calaway | Sara | Storyline ended; made brief appearances for WWE later. | |
| 2001 | Jim Dotson | Jim Dotson | Left to pursue other interest. | |
| February 2001 | Jerry Lawler | Jerry "The King" Lawler | Quit the company in protest of his wife, Stacy Carter, being released. He would return to the company later that year. | |
| February 27, 2001 | Stacy Carter | The Kat, Miss Kitty | Released for behavior problems backstage. | |
| June 2001 | Jason Arhndt | Joey Abs | Released from contract. Later retired. | |
| June 2001 | Peter Gasperino | Pete Gas | Released from contract. Later retired. | |
| June 2001 | Ron Killings | K-Kwik | Mutually agreed on release due to lack of push. | |
| June 2001 | Rodney Leinhardt | Rodney | Released from contract. Later retired. | |
| July 2001 | Joseph Hitchen | Just Joe | Released from contract. | |
| July 9, 2001 | Marcus Bagwell | Buff Bagwell | Released for unprofessional conduct. | |
| August 2001 | Charles Warrington | Chaz, Mosh, Beaver Cleavage | Released from his contract. | |
| September 2001 | Terri Poch | Tori | Was asked to train more but refused and was released. | |
| September 2001 | Jesús Guadalupe Delgado Seldaña | Essa Rios | Rumors say he refused to speak English. | |
| September 24, 2001 | Brian Adams | Brian Adams, Crush | Left WWF when he was asked to go to a developmental territory. | |
| September 24, 2001 | Bryan Clark | Bryan Clark, Adam Bomb | Left WWF when he was asked to go to a developmental territory. | |
| November 30, 2001 | Chyna | Chyna | Laurer sat out her contract after negotiations stalled around May 2001; her WWF contract ended November of that year. | |
| 2002 | Raymond Rougeau | Raymond Rougeau | Left when they stopped producing French programming. | |
| 2002 | Billy Silverman | Billy Silverman | Asked for release due to constant hazing. | |
| April 2002 | Takao Yoshida | Taka Michinoku | Left to go back to Japan after a serious shoulder injury. |
World Wrestling Entertainment era[]
2002–2003[]
| Release date | Real Name | Ring Name(s) | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 | Tonga Fifita | Haku, King Tonga, King Haku | Retired | |
| 2002 | Jerry Lynn | Jerry Lynn | Released. Went To TNA. | |
| May 7, 2002 | Scott Hall | Scott Hall, Razor Ramon | Released for obscene behavior on a plane trip and for drug and alcohol related issues. | |
| May 8, 2002 | Curt Hennig | Mr. Perfect, Curt Hennig | Released after reportedly becoming intoxicated and getting into a fight with Brock Lesnar on a return flight from the United Kingdom. | |
| June 3, 2002 | Steven Anderson | Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Ringmaster | Walked out of the company because he felt that the creative team were constantly giving him nothing but bad storylines. | |
| July 2002 | Gurjit Singh | Tiger Ali Singh | Released after a career-ending injury.Then attempted to sue the WWE. | |
| August 25, 2002 | Sean Waltman | X-Pac, 1-2-3 Kid, The Kid, Syxx | Left WWE in a mutual decision. | |
| September 7, 2002 | Michael Alfonso | Mike Awesome | Released from contract. | |
| September 27, 2002 | Sean Stipich | Shawn Stasiak, Meat, Planet Stasiak | Was fired after gimmick failed. | |
| October 2002 | Steve Blackman | Steve Blackman | Retired due to injury. | |
| October 2002 | David Fliehr | David Flair | Released from developmental contract. | |
| November 24, 2002 | Page Falkinburg | Diamond Dallas Page | Left after a neck injury suffered in a match with Hardcore Holly. | |
| November 24, 2002 | Perry Satullo | Perry Saturn | Retore his ACL in April. Was released before he could return. | |
| December 5, 2002 | Charles Wright | The Godfather, The Goodfather, Kama Mustafa, Kama, Papa Shango | Retired | |
| January 2003 | Barry Buchanan | Bull Buchanan, Recon, B-2 | Released from contract. | |
| January 2003 | Scott Levy | Raven, Johnny Polo, Scotty Flamingo | Left after a contract dispute. | |
| February 14, 2003 | Accie C. Connor | D'Lo Brown | Left to wrestle in Japan. | |
| March 2003 | Kevin Kelly | Kevin Kelly | Left to pursue other ventures. | |
| March 2003 | Debra Marshall | Debra | Walked from WWE in 2002 following Stone Cold Steve Austin's departure, WWE did not announce this until 2003. | |
| April 2003 | Eric Angle | Eric Angle | Released from developmental contract. | |
| May 2003 | Wayde Bowles | Rocky Johnson | Released as a trainer for Ohio Valley Wrestling. | |
| June 2003 | Terry Taylor | Terry Taylor, Red Rooster | Released after problems with other employees. | |
| June 2003 | Roderick Toombs | Roddy Piper | Released after he gave a controversial interview on HBO's Real Sports with Bryan Gumbel. | |
| July 2003 | Terry Bollea | Hulk Hogan, Hollywood Hogan, Mr. America | Contract expired. Left to star in both TV and movies. | |
| July 1, 2003 | Mike Lockwood | Crash Holly, Crash | Released on suspicion that he was using drugs. | |
| December 6, 2003 | Nathan Jones | Nathan Jones | Requested release due to heavy travel schedule. | |
| December 31, 2003 | Kevin Nash | Kevin Nash, Diesel, Vinnie Vegas, Steel, Oz | Left after contract expired. |
2004–2005[]
| Release date | Real Name | Ring Name(s) | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| February 4, 2004 | Zach Gowen | Zach Gowen | Released due to alleged attitude problems. | |
| February 9, 2004 | Chris Klucsaritis | Chris Kanyon | Kanyon claims that he was released because he is a homosexual. | |
| February 12, 2004 | Ernest Miller | Ernest "The Cat" Miller | Retired | |
| February 12, 2004 | Desmond Thompson | Lamont | Was released when Ernest Miller retired | |
| March 15, 2004 | Bill Goldberg | Goldberg | Contract expired, declined to re-sign. | |
| March 15, 2004 | Brock Lesnar | Brock Lesnar | Left to pursue career in the National Football League. | |
| April 3, 2004 | Sean O'Haire | Sean O'Haire | Released after he was involved in an altercation with a female and was charged with assault. | |
| April 3, 2004 | Terri Runnels | Terri Runnels, Marlena | Released due to budget cuts. She also claims it was time for her to retire. | |
| April 15, 2004 | Yoshihiro Asai | Ultimo Dragon | Asked for release to go back to Japan. | |
| June 2004 | Rue DeBona | Rue DeBona | Asked for release. | |
| June 2004 | Brian Lawler | Grandmaster Sexay, Brian Christopher | Released for allegedly using muscle relaxers. | |
| June 2004 | Jacqueline Moore | Jacqueline, Ms. Jackie Moore | Released due to budget cuts. | |
| June 15, 2004 | Chavo Guerrero, Sr. | Chavo Guerrero, Chavo Classic | Released for no-showing a SmackDown! house show two days earlier. | |
| July 17, 2004 | Solofa Fatu | Rikishi, The Sultan, Fatu | Released after refusing to lose weight. | |
| August 5, 2004 | Ryan Sakoda | Sakoda | Budget Cut | |
| August 10, 2004 | Rena Mero | Sable | Budget Cut | |
| August 17, 2004 | Scott Rechsteiner | Scott Steiner | He & WWE agreed on his release. | |
| October 26, 2004 | Carmella DeCesare | Carmella DeCesare | Was no longer needed and released. | |
| November 1, 2004 | Matthew Bloom | A-Train, Albert, Prince Albert | Budget cut; released while he was injured with a torn rotator cuff. | |
| November 1, 2004 | Monty Sopp | Billy Gunn, Mr. Ass, Billy G, RockaBilly | Left after contract expired. | |
| November 2, 2004 | Rico Constantino | Rico | Budget Cut; Retired from wrestling. | |
| November 3, 2004 | Nidia Guenard | Nidia | Budget Cut | |
| November 3, 2004 | Gail Kim | Gail Kim | Budget Cut | |
| November 4, 2004 | John Hugger | Johnny Stamboli | Budget Cut | |
| November 12, 2004 | Linda Miles | Linda Miles, Shaniqua | Released because of attitude problems. | |
| December 31, 2004 | Dwayne Johnson | The Rock, Rocky Maivia | Retired from wrestling to focus on his movie career. | |
| February 2005 | Amy Weber | Amy Weber | Left after hazing from Randy Orton. | |
| March 2005 | Rochelle Loewen | Rochelle Loewen | Left because she felt she wasn't getting enough exposure. | |
| April 11, 2005 | Terry Gerin | Rhyno | Released for having a rather public argument with his wife in a hotel foyer, breaking a vase in the process. | |
| April 11, 2005 | William Moody | Paul Bearer | Contract was terminated. | |
| April 12, 2005 | Nora Greenwald | Molly Holly, Mighty Molly | Requested release for personal reasons. | |
| April 12, 2005 | Aaron Aguilera | Jesús Aguilera, Jesús, Uno | Released from developmental contract. | |
| April 18, 2005 | Lance Evers | Lance Storm | Asked for his release due to the condition of his back. | |
| May 11, 2005 | Matt Wiese | Luther Reigns | Was released on good terms with Vince McMahon. | |
| June 2005 | Lauren Jones | Lauren Jones | Left to star in movies and TV shows, considers coming back. | |
| June 30, 2005 | Marc Lloyd | Marc Lloyd | One of the first releases in WWE's major budget cuts in late June/July 2005. | |
| July 5, 2005 | Maven Huffman | Maven | Budget Cut | |
| July 5, 2005 | Matt Hyson | Spike Dudley | WWE decided not to renew his contract. Believed to be a cost-cutting measure by WWE. | |
| July 5, 2005 | Peter Gruner | Billy Kidman, Kidman | Budget Cut | |
| July 5, 2005 | Mark Jindrak | Mark Jindrak | Budget Cut | |
| July 6, 2005 | Jackie Gayda | Miss Jackie | Budget Cut | |
| July 6, 2005 | Joy Giovanni | Joy Giovanni | Budget Cut | |
| July 6, 2005 | Devon Hughes | D-Von Dudley, Reverend D-Von | WWE decided not to renew his contract. | |
| July 6, 2005 | Mark LoMonaco | Bubba Ray Dudley, Buh Buh Ray Dudley | WWE decided not to renew his contract. | |
| July 6, 2005 | Matt Morgan | Matt Morgan | Budget Cut | |
| July 6, 2005 | Dawn Marie Psaltis | Dawn Marie | Budget Cut; she was pregnant at the time. | |
| July 6, 2005 | Hiroko Suzuki | Hiroko | Budget Cut | |
| July 6, 2005 | Kenzo Suzuki | Kenzo Suzuki | Budget Cut | |
| July 8, 2005 | Jim Cornette | Jim Cornette | Released after many backstage confrontations at OVW. | |
| July 18, 2005 | Earl Hebner | Earl Hebner | Released for selling WWE merchandise without permission. | |
| July 19, 2005 | Dave Hebner | Dave Hebner | Released in connection with Earl Hebner incident. | |
| July 22, 2005 | Lisa Moretti | Ivory | WWE refused to renew her contract. | |
| July 25, 2005 | Brian Heffron | The Blue Meanie | Short-term contract expired | |
| August 13, 2005 | Frankie Kazarian | Kaz | Asked for his release after WWE wanted him to cut his hair. | |
| September 11, 2005 | Daniel Puder | Daniel Puder | Budget Cut; offered a lower salary but refused. | |
| September 21, 2005 | Mark Copani | Muhammad Hassan | Taken off TV at request of UPN over an angle. Quit shortly thereafter. | |
| October 29, 2005 | Brian Hebner | Brian Hebner | Released, shortly after his father Earl Hebner and uncle Dave Hebner, for behavior problems. | |
| October 31, 2005 | Jason Reso | Christian | Contract expired. Decided to join TNA | |
| December 5, 2005 | Christy Hemme | Christy Hemme | Budget Cut | |
| December 8, 2005 | Yoshihiro Tajiri | Tajiri | Asked for his release so he could go back to Japan. |
2006–2007[]
| Release date | Real Name | Ring Name(s) | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Terry Funk | Terry Funk | Was injured at One Night Stand and advised not to return. | |
| January 2006 | Elisabeth Rouffaer | Elisabeth Rouffaer | Left WWE because she didn't feel like wrestling was the right job for her. | |
| January 6, 2006 | Eduardo Aníbal González Hernández | Juventud Guerrera, Juventud | Released for poor behavior backstage. | |
| January 17, 2006 | Jon Heidenreich | Heidenreich | Released by WWE after taking time off for ear infection. | |
| February 2006 | Thea Vidale | Momma Benjamin | Gimmick had ended, and was no longer needed. | |
| February 10, 2006 | Tom Matera | Antonio | Was released along with his tag partner Romeo. | |
| February 10, 2006 | John Roselli | Romeo | Was released along with his tag partner Antonio. | |
| February 13, 2006 | "Cowboy" Bob Orton | "Cowboy" Bob Orton | Was no longer needed. | |
| February 22, 2006 | John Toland | James Dick | Released due to alleged backstage incident with his tag team partner. | |
| February 22, 2006 | Chad Wicks | Chad Dick | Released due to alleged backstage incident with his tag team partner. | |
| March 9, 2006 | José Alvarado Nieves | Super Porky | Was released with entire Juniors Division. | |
| March 9, 2006 | Unknown | Octagoncito | Was released with entire Juniors Division. | |
| March 9, 2006 | Unknown | Piratita Morgan | Was released with entire Juniors Division. | |
| March 9, 2006 | Mascarita Sagrada | Mascarita Sagrada, Max Mini, Tsuki | Was released with entire Juniors Division. | |
| March 9, 2006 | Unknown | Pequeño Violencia | Was released with entire Juniors Division. | |
| March 21, 2006 | Matt Anoa'i | Rosey | Mutual decision, both parties thought it was a good idea for him to take time off while he worked on his excessive weight situation. | |
| April 4, 2006 | Travis Tomko | Tyson Tomko | Asked for release due to lack of role and storylines. | |
| April 27, 2006 | Brian Mailhot | Palmer Canon | Requested release after alleged hazing by other superstars. | |
| May 26, 2006 | Orlando Jordan | Orlando Jordan | He was allegedly released for having an unauthorized person with him on the road and backstage at events. | |
| June 6, 2006 | Joseph Laurinaitis | Road Warrior Animal, Animal, The Road Warrior | Released after throwing a temper tantrum backstage because his character ideas were all turned down by management. | |
| June 14, 2006 | Dustin Rhodes | Goldust, Dustin Runnels | Released because he missed a RAW show while attending to family problems in court without informing WWE officials. | |
| June 29, 2006 | Joseph Dorgan | Johnny Parisi | Given release after only appearing on Heat. | |
| July 2006 | Stacy Keibler | Stacy Keibler, Super Stacy | Let contract expire to pursue a modeling career. | |
| August 25, 2006 | Kurt Angle | Kurt Angle | Granted an early release due to "personal reasons"/On the road a lot because of WWE House shows he was tired out because of the schedule, went to TNA | |
| September 17, 2006 | Patricia Stratigias | Trish Stratus | Retired from wrestling. | |
| September 27, 2006 | David Cash | Kid Kash | Released due to "attitude problems" | |
| September 28, 2006 | Peter Polaco | Justin Credible, Aldo Montoya, P.J.Walker | Released after no-showing an ECW taping and for failing to contact WWE management afterwards. | |
| September 29, 2006 | Marty Jannetty | Marty Jannetty | Fired for no-showing and not contacting the office afterwards. | |
| October 12, 2006 | Francine Fournier | Francine | Released from her contract. | |
| October 12, 2006 | Brent Albright | Gunner Scott | Released from developmental contract | |
| October 26, 2006 | Ted DiBiase | "The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase | Budget cut. | |
| November 1, 2006 | Dionicio Castellanos | Psicosis | He was released following an arrest for allegedly stealing a car in Mexico. | |
| November 26, 2006 | Amy Dumas | Lita | Retired to focus on acting and music career; also wanted to stay away from the spotlight after the tremendous fan backlash she had been receiving because she legitimately cheated on Matt Hardy with Adam "Edge" Copeland. | |
| December 13, 2006 | Amy Zidian | Amy Zidian | Released from her contract because of attitude problems, allegedly with Stephanie McMahon. | |
| December 15, 2006 | Dan Morrison | Danny Doring | Released from his contract. | |
| 2007 | Paul Heyman | Paul Heyman | Removed from his position in ECW on December 4, 2006. Then quietly left the company. | |
| 2007 | Todd Romero | Steve Romero | Quietly left the company. | |
| 2007 | Steve Williams | Dr. Death Steve Williams | Released from developmental duties | |
| January 18, 2007 | Chris Anderson | C.W. Anderson, Christopher W. Anderson | Budget cut. | |
| January 18, 2007 | Doug Basham | Doug Basham | Budget cut. | |
| January 18, 2007 | Carlene Begnaud | Jazz | Budget cut. | |
| January 18, 2007 | Rodney Begnaud | Rodney Mack | Budget cut. | |
| January 18, 2007 | David Heath | Gangrel | Budget cut. | |
| January 18, 2007 | Danny Holly | Danny Basham | Budget cut. | |
| January 18, 2007 | Mike Shane | Jake Gymini | Budget cut. | |
| January 18, 2007 | Todd Shane | Jesse Gymini | Budget cut. | |
| January 18, 2007 | Charles John Spencer | Tony Mamaluke | Budget cut. | |
| January 18, 2007 | Sylvester Terkay | Sylvester Terkay | Budget cut. | |
| January 19, 2007 | Chris Chavis | Tatanka | Budget cut. | |
| January 20, 2007 | Bill DeMott | Bill DeMott, Hugh Morrus | Budget cut. Not following expectations of WWE staff. | |
| February 27, 2007 | Andrew Martin | Test | Requested release following 30 day suspension. Also believed to have failed a drug test. | |
| March 22, 2007 | Rebecca DiPietro | Rebecca | Requested Release. | |
| March 26, 2007 | Adam Birch | Joey Mercury | Backstage Problems. Also had drug problems. | |
| May 11, 2007 | Rob Conway | Rob Conway | Budget cut | |
| May 11, 2007 | Charles Skaggs | Flash Funk, 2 Cold Scorpio | Budget cut | |
| May 15, 2007 | Vito LoGrasso | Vito | Budget cut | |
| May 15, 2007 | Terry Brunk | Sabu | Backstage problems | |
| May 18, 2007 | Shelly Martinez | Ariel | Released from contract after backstage fight with Batista | |
| May 18, 2007 | Scott Garland | Scotty 2 Hotty, Scott Taylor | Budget Cut. | |
| May 18, 2007 | Nick Mitchell | Mitch | Budget Cut. | |
| May 19, 2007 | Mark Canterbury | Henry O. Godwinn, Mark Canterbury | Released from Developmental contract | |
| June 22, 2007 | Stephanie Finochio | Trinity | Released from contract, was inactive. | |
| June 30, 2007 | Robert Szatkowski | Rob Van Dam | Left the company in order to take care of his wife, who had been diagnosed with cancer; took a hiatus from wrestling as a result. | |
| July 11, 2007 | Chris Kay | Chris Kay | Failed a drug test. | |
| July 26, 2007 | René Goguen | Rene Dupree | Released due to drug related incident. | |
| August 5, 2007 | Eric Bischoff | Eric Bischoff | Contract expired. | |
| August 6, 2007 | Aaron Stevens | Idol Stevens | Requested release due to lack of storyline. | |
| August 13, 2007 | Sylvain Grenier | Sylvan, Sylvain Grenier | Released due to an argument backstage over his canceled push. | |
| August 22, 2007 | Daniel Rodimer | Dan Rodman | Released to pursue a separate career. | |
| August 31, 2007 | Mike Bucci | Simon Dean, Hollywood Nova | Released due to his connection to an illegal pharmacy ring. | |
| September 1, 2007 | Nick Dinsmore | Eugene | Released after failing to come up with papers concerning his prescription medicine. | |
| September 2, 2007 | Jayson Paul | JTG | Released due to altercation at house show with referees. | |
| September 2, 2007 | Shad Gaspard | Shad Gaspard | Released due to altercation at house show with referees. | |
| September 11, 2007 | Jim Fullington | The Sandman | Requested early release | |
| September 19, 2007 | Monty Brown | Marcus Cor Von | Released due to personal reasons | |
| October 13, 2007 | Reuben Cain | Robert Gibson | Released for not properly handling a heated confrontation between CM Punk and Tony Atlas. | |
| October 16, 2007 | Booker Huffman | Booker T, King Booker | Granted release from contract following 60-Day Suspension; later went to TNA | |
| October 16, 2007 | Sharmell Sullivan | Queen Sharmell, Sharmell | Released along with her husband | |
| October 16, 2007 | Shawn Daivari | Daivari | Granted release from contract. | |
| October 30, 2007 | Kristal Marshall | Kristal | Rejected storyline to be Edge's girlfriend | |
| November 1, 2007 | Brooke Adams | Brooke | Released from contract | |
| November 8, 2007 | Chris Mordetzky | Chris Masters | Released from contract while serving 60 Day Suspension |
2008[]
| Release date | Real Name | Ring Name(s) | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | Johnny Jeter | Johnny Jeter Johnny |
Quietly released from the company. | |
| January 8, 2008 | Anastacia Rose McPherson | Anastacia Anastacia Rose |
Released from contract. | |
| February 4, 2008 | Franklin Lashley | Bobby Lashley Lashley |
Left for reasons beyond his control. He had stated that he did not want to leave the WWE in an interview. | |
| February 4, 2008 | Michael Depoli | Roadkill Antoni Polaski |
Released from his contract for selling un-authorised WWE merchandise. | |
| February 7, 2008 | Allen Sarven | Al Snow Avatar Steve Moore Leif Cassidy Shinobi |
Released following WWE ending their affiliation with Ohio Valley Wrestling. Was under a wrestling trainer's contract. | |
| April 28, 2008 | David Taylor | Dave Taylor | Released from contract. | |
| April 28, 2008 | Jonathan Rechner | Balls Mahoney Xanta Klaus |
Released from contract. | |
| May 8, 2008 | Torrie Wilson | Torrie Wilson | Requested release due to a back injury. | |
| June 13, 2008 | Michael Brendli | Mike Mondo Mikey |
Released from contract. | |
| July 3, 2008 | William Mueller | Trevor Murdoch | Contract expired. WWE decided not to renew it. | |
| July 9, 2008 | Ashley Massaro | Ashley Massaro Ashley |
Requested release in order to care for her sick daughter. | |
| August 3, 2008 | Richard Fliehr | Ric Flair | Requested release. | |
| August 3, 2008 | Jonathan Coachman | Jonathan Coachman | Left to work for ESPN. | |
| August 7, 2008 | Chris Harris | Braden Walker | Released from contract. | |
| August 8, 2008 | Kurt Sellers | KC James James Curtis |
Released from contract. | |
| August 8, 2008 | Clifford Compton | Domino | Released from contract. | |
| August 8, 2008 | Shannon Moore | Shannon Moore | Released from contract. | |
| August 8, 2008 | James Maritato | Nunzio Little Guido |
Released from contract. | |
| August 8, 2008 | Nick Hamilton | Nick Patrick | Released from contract. | |
| August 8, 2008 | Nelson Frazier, Jr. | Mabel King Mabel Viscera Big Daddy V |
Released from contract. | |
| August 15, 2008 | Michael Manna | Stevie Richards Steven Richards Big Stevie Cool |
Released from contract. | |
| August 15, 2008 | Derek Graham-Couch | Robbie McAllister | Released from contract. | |
| August 15, 2008 | Russell Murray | Rory McAllister | Released from contract. | |
| August 15, 2008 | Wes Adams | Wes Adams | Released from contract. | |
| August 15, 2008 | Kara Drew | Cherry | Released from contract. Was rumored that she wasn't thin enough to be a diva. | |
| August 15, 2008 | Colin Delaney | Colin Delaney | Released from contract. | |
| September 1, 2008 | Mick Foley, Sr. | Mick Foley Cactus Jack Dude Love Mankind |
Allowed contract to expire because he was unhappy with his position in the company. Was tired of being beat up or killed off in all of his promos | |
| October 14, 2008 | Lance McNaught | Lance Cade Garrison Cade |
Released from contract after suffering a seizure on a plane and needing emergency medical care. | |
| November 5, 2008 | Francisco Pantoja Islas | Super Crazy | Requested release because he was unhappy with his position in the company. | |
| November 7, 2008 | Paul London | Paul London | Released from contract. | |
| November 7, 2008 | Charles Palumbo | Chuck Palumbo Chuck |
Released from contract. | |
| November 10, 2008 | Elijah Burke | Elijah Burke | Released from contract. | |
| November 10, 2008 | Kenneth Doane | Kenny Kenny Dykstra |
Released from contract. | |
| November 10, 2008 | Lena Yada | Lena Yada | Released from contract. | |
| November 18, 2008 | Hazem Ali | Armando Estrada Armando Alejandro Estrada |
Released from contract. | |
| December 1, 2008 | Bruce Prichard | Brother Love | Released from contract. | |
| December 11, 2008 | Gene Snitsky | Snitsky Gene Snitsky |
Released from contract. | |
| December 31, 2008 | Barry Windham | Barry Windham The Widowmaker The Stalker Blackjack Windham |
Released from contract. |
2009[]
| Release date | Real Name | Ring Name(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 9, 2009 | Keenan Quinn | Kevin Keenan | Budget cut |
| January 9, 2009 | Michael Mayo, Jr, | Mike Kruel | Released from developmental contract |
| January 9, 2009 | Accie Conner | D'Lo Brown | Released from contract |
| January 9, 2009 | Justin LaRouche | Bam Neely | Released from contract |
| January 9, 2009 | Sean Morley | Val Venis The Big Valbowski Sean Morley Chief Morley |
Released from contract due to inactivity |
| January 9, 2009 | Kevin Fertig | Mordecai Kevin Thorn |
Released from developmental contract |
| January 9, 2009 | Tim White | Budget cut | |
| January 9, 2009 | Jim Korderas | Jim Korderas Jimmy Korderas |
Budget cut |
| January 9, 2009 | Mike Posey | Mike Posey | Budget cut |
| January 10, 2009 | Ronnie Arniell | Gavin Spears | Budget cut |
| January 13, 2009 | Robert Remus | Sgt. Slaughter | Budget cut |
| January 13, 2009 | Ron Simmons | Ron Simmons Faarooq Faarooq Asaad |
Budget cut |
| January 14, 2009 | Mickie Henson | Mickie Henson | Budget cut |
| January 14, 2009 | Matt Cappotelli | Matt Cappotelli | Budget cut |
| January 15, 2009 | Hade Vansen | None | Released from contract |
| January 16, 2009 | Lisa Marie Varon | Victoria | Retired. Stated that WWE wasn't giving her anything creative with storylines.
Moved to TNA as Tara |
| January 16, 2009 | Robert Howard | Hardcore Holly Bob Holly Bombastic Bob Thurman "Sparky" Plugg |
Released from contract |
| February 20, 2009 | Scott Colton | Scotty Goldman | Released from contract |
| February 22, 2009 | Freddie Prinze, Jr. | Granted release | |
| February 24, 2009 | Afa Anoa'i, Jr. | Manu | Released from contract |
| March 4, 2009 | Marty Wright | The Boogeyman | Released from contract |
| March 5, 2009 | John Carle | None | Released from contract |
| March 9, 2009 | Brad Bradley | Ryan Braddock | Released from contract |
| March 9, 2009 | Nick Cvjetkovich | Kizarny Sinn Bowdee |
Requested release due to limited exposure |
| March 18, 2009 | Travis Tomko | Tysom Tomko | Released from contract |
| March 31, 2009 | Peter Senerchia | Tazz | Contract expired. Refused to re-sign. Joined TNA. |
| April 5, 2009 | John Layfield | John "Bradshaw" Layfield (JBL) Bradshaw Blackjack Bradshaw Justin Hawk |
Retired |
| April 24, 2009 | Wayne Coleman | "Superstar" Billy Graham | Released from WWE Legends contract after a fallout with Vince McMahon. |
| May 29, 2009 | Ken Anderson | Mr. Kennedy, Ken Kennedy | Fired for botching and re-injuring himself in a match |
| June 8, 2009 | Eddie Fatu | Umaga, Jamal | Released for his second violation in the company and for refusing to take a rehab drug test |
| June 8, 2009 | Vickie Guerrero | Vickie Guerrero | Released so she could spend more time with her family. |
| June 19, 2009 | Candice Michelle | Candice Michelle | Released while she was injured. |
| June 19, 2009 | Jimmy Reiher, Jr. | Deuce, Sim Snuka | Released from contract. |
| July 30, 2009 | Brian Kendrick | The Brian Kendrick Brian Kendrick Spanky |
Asked for release because he was unhappy with his place in the company. Now 205 Live. |
| August 28, 2009 | Jeff Hardy | Left to take time off to heal various injuries; later joined TNA. | |
| October 20, 2009 | Nigel McGuinness | Initial deal fell through; decided to join TNA. | |
| November 24, 2009 | Lauren C. Mayhew | Lauren Mayhew | Contract was not renewed after the two parties failed to negotiate for a long-term contract. |
2010[]
| Release date | Real Name | Ring Name(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 4, 2010 | Thomas Laughlin | Tommy Dreamer | Released from contract, later joined TNA. |
| January 17, 2010 | Eric Perez | Eric Escobar Eric Perez |
Storyline didn't go as planned. |
| February 26, 2010 | Maria Kanellis | Maria | Requested release so she could pursue a music career.
Moved to ROH & TNA, NJPW |
| February 26, 2010 | Gregory Helms | The Hurricane Hurricane Helms |
Requested release because he was unhappy with WWE's current creative direction. |
| February 26, 2010 | Paul Burchill | Paul Burchill | Released from contract |
| March 28, 2010 | Michael Hickenbottom | Shawn Michaels | Retired. Michaels appeared on RAW the following night after his loss against Undertaker at WrestleMania XXVI to say goodbye. |
| April 22, 2010 | Mickie James | Mickie James | Released due to weight issues
Moved to TNA |
| April 22, 2010 | Katarina Waters | Katie Lea Burchill | Released from contract
Moved to TNA as Winter |
| April 22, 2010 | Shelton Benjamin | Shelton Benjamin | Released from contract |
| April 22, 2010 | Shoichi Funaki | Kung Fu Naki Funaki |
Left to open a wrestling school. |
| April 22, 2010 | Ray Gordy | Slam Master J Jesse Jesse Dalton Ray Geezy |
Released from contract |
| April 22, 2010 | James Carson Yun | Jimmy Wang Yang | Released from contract |
| April 24, 2010 | Michael Shawn Hettinga | Mike Knox | Released from contract |
| May 1, 2010 | Anthony White | Tony Atlas | Released from contract |
| May 22, 2010 | Carlos Edwin "Carly" Colón, Jr. | Carlito | Released due to violation of the WWE Wellness Program |
| May 24, 2010 | Dave Bautista | Batista | Requested a departure because he didn't like the direction of the WWE, and wouldn't be returning any time soon. |
| June 11, 2010 | Bryan Danielson | Daniel Bryan | Released after a segment where he choked ring announcer Justin Roberts with his own tie was deemed too violent for WWE programming; was re-hired a month later. |
| June 21, 2010 | Mike Jones | Virgil | Storyline ended; he was no longer needed. |
| June 23, 2010 | Angela Fong | Savannah Miss Angela |
Released due to inactivity after the ECW brand was discontinued. |
| August 15, 2010 | Lou D'Angeli | Lou E. Dangerously Sign Guy Dudley |
Contract expired |
| August 24, 2010 | Serena Deeb | Serena | Released from contract due to Visa issues. |
| September 27, 2010 | Chris Irvine | Chris Jericho | Decided to take time off to tour with his band Fozzy and so he could appear on the TV show Dancing With The Stars. |
| October 13, 2010 | Brittany Beede | Jamie Keyes | Released from contract |
| October 17, 2010 | Matt Hardy | Matt Hardy Matt Hardy Version 1.0 |
Released from contract after management sent him home during a tour of Europe. Later joined TNA. |
| November 2010 | Bret Hart | Contract expired. | |
| November 19, 2010 | Shad Gaspard | Shad Gaspard | Released from developmental contract. |
| November 19, 2010 | Aaron Mahoney | Aaron "Goose" Mahoney | Released from contract |
| November 19, 2010 | Drew Hankinson | Luke Gallows Festus Festus Dalton Freakin' Deacon |
Released from contract due to lack of an angle for his character. |
| November 19, 2010 | Jillian Fletcher | Jillian Hall | Released from contract |
| November 19, 2010 | Taryn Terrell | Tiffany | Released from contract.
Moved to TNA as her real name. |
| November 19, 2010 | Chris Pavone | Caylen Croft | Released from contract |
| November 19, 2010 | Lance Hoyt | Vance Archer |
Released from contract due to inactivity. |
| December 2, 2010 | Alvin Burke, Jr. | MVP (Montel Vontavious Porter) | Requested and received his release. |
| December 23, 2010 | Brandon Silvestry | Kaval | Requested release due to the hectic travel schedule. |
2011[]
| February 3, 2011 | Dave Finlay | Finlay | Retired |
| April 15, 2011 | Adam Copeland | Edge | Decided to retire after he was diagnosed with cervical spinal stenosis; was forced to vacate the World Heavyweight Championship. |
| May 1, 2011 | Michelle McCool | Michelle McCool | Retired |
| June 13, 2011 | Tyrone Evans | Michael Tarver Tyson Tarver |
Released from contract. |
| August 5, 2011 | Chris Mordetzky | Chris Masters | Released from contract |
| August 5, 2011 | Melina Perez | Melina | Released from contract. |
| August 5, 2011 | Oleg Prudius | Vladimir Kozlov | Released from contract. |
| August 5, 2011 | David Hart Smith | David Hart Smith DH Smith |
Released from contract, wanted to wrestle in Japan. |
| August 8, 2011 | Jonathan Emminger | Lucky Cannon Johnny Prime |
Released. |
| August 23, 2011 | Todd Grisham | Todd Grisham | Left WWE to pursue other interests. |
| September 29, 2011 | James Maritato | Nunzio | Released from contract. |
| September 30, 2011 | Gail Kim | Gail Kim | Requested and received release.
Returned to TNA |
| October 28, 2011 | Maryse Ouellet | Maryse | Released after two months of inactivity; she was also allegedly being stalked at WWE live events. |
| November 28, 2011 | John Hennigan | Johnny Nitro
John Morrison |
Released from contract. |
2012[]
| April 30, 2012 | Brianna Garcia | Brie Bella | Released from contract |
| April 30, 2012 | Nicole Garcia | Nikki Bella | Released from contract |
| May 6, 2012 | Dustin Runnels | Goldust, Dustin Rhodes | Released from contract |
| July 25, 2012 | Kia Stevens | Kharma | Released from contract |
| June 28, 2012 | Karlee Perez | Maxine | Released from contract |
| September 28, 2012 | Barbie Blank | Kelly Kelly | After months of inactivity; requested and received release. |
| October 29, 2012 | Elizabeth Carolan | Beth Phoenix | Released from contract |
2013[]
| January 14, 2013 | Eve Torres | Eve Torres | Released from contract |
| May 17, 2013 | Michael Hutter | Derrick Bateman | Released from contract.
Moved to TNA as Ethan Carter (EC3). |
| May 17, 2013 | Kazma | Sakamoto | Released from developmental contract. |
| May 17, 2013 | Nick McNeil | Percy Watson | Released from contract. |
| June 20, 2013 | Matthew Kaye | Matt Striker | His contract was not renewed. |
| September 1, 2013 | Theodore DiBiase, Jr. | Ted DiBiase, Jr. | Decided not to renew his contract |
2014[]
| January 8, 2014 | Celeste Bonin | Kaitlyn | Retired |
| June 12, 2014 | Drew Galloway | Drew McIntyre | Released from contract.
Moved to TNA as his real name. |
| June 12, 2014 | Yuvraj Raj Dhesi | Jinder Mahal | Released from contract |
| June 12, 2014 | Živilė Raudonienė | Aksana | Released from contract |
| June 12, 2014 | Brian Myers | Curt Hawkins | Released from contract |
| June 12, 2014 | Theodore Long | Theodore Long | Released from contract |
| June 12, 2014 | Tevita Fifita | Camacho | Released from contract |
| June 12, 2014 | George Murdoch | Brodus Clay | Released from contract
Moved to TNA as Tyrus. |
| June 12, 2014 | Matthew Joseph Korklan | Evan Bourne | Released from contract after years of inactivity |
| June 12, 2014 | Naofumi Yamamoto | Yoshi Tatsu | Released from contract |
| June 12, 2014 | Marc Harris | Marc Harris | Released from contract |
| June 12, 2014 | Jayson Paul | JTG | Released from contract |
| June 15, 2014 | Phillip Brooks | CM Punk | Contract was terminated after walking out of WWE due to creative differences and personal health issues |
| June 25, 2014 | Josh Lomberger | Josh Matthews | Released from contract |
| July 30, 2014 | Jesús Rodríguez | Ricardo Rodriguez | Released from contract |
| August 7, 2014 | Alberto Rodríguez | Alberto Del Rio | Fired after physically assaulting a backstage employee |
| August 26, 2014 | Robert Szatkowski | Rob Van Dam | Decided not to renew his contract |
| October 11, 2014 | Justin Jason Roberts | Justin Roberts | Released |
2015[]
| January 24, 2015 | Paul Lloyd, Jr. | Justin Gabriel | Quit under contract |
| February 28, 2015 | Oscar Gutierrez | Rey Mysterio | Contract expired. Went to AAA |
| April 3, 2015 | Joe Robinson | CJ Parker | Requested and received his release |
| April 3, 2015 | April Brooks | AJ Lee | Retired |
| July 29, 2015 | Layla El Barrami | Layla El | Retired |
| November 13, 2015 | Monty Sopp | Billy Gunn | Released from contract |
2016[]
| February 5, 2016 | James Smith | Bull Dempsey | Released from contract |
| February 5, 2016 | Pierre Marceau | Marcus Louis | Released from contract |
| February 5, 2016 | Thomas La Ruffa | Sylvester LeFort | Released from contract |
| February 8, 2016 | Bryan Danielson | Daniel Bryan | Retired. |
| April 27, 2016 | Rich Bocchini | Rich Brennan | Released from contract |
| April 29, 2016 | Arda Ocal | Kyle Edwards | Released from contract |
| May 6, 2016 | Anthony Carelli | Santino Marella | Retired in 2014.
Released from contract |
| May 6, 2016 | Ariane Andrew | Cameron | Released from contract |
| May 6, 2016 | Wayne Maurice Keown | Zeb Colter | Released from contract |
| May 6, 2016 | Mascarita Dorada | El Torito | Released from contract |
| May 6, 2016 | Kevin Robert Kiley, Jr. | Alex Riley | Released from contract |
| May 6, 2016 | Dylan Postl | Hornswoggle | Released from contract
Move to TNA as Swoggle. |
| May 6, 2016 | Stuart Bennett | King Barrett | Released from contract |
| May 6, 2016 | Aaron Haddad | Damien Sandow | Released from contract.
Move to TNA as Aron Rex. |
| May 21, 2016 | Cody Runnels | Cody Rhodes, Stardust |
Requested and received release.
Move to TNA & ROH as Cody. |
| May 23, 2016 | Raymond Leppan | Adam Rose | Requested and received release |
| May 24, 2016 | Brandi Runnels | Eden Stiles | Requested and received release.
Move to TNA as Brandi Rhodes. |
| August 8, 2016 | Ryan Reeves | Ryback | Released from contract |
| August 22, 2016 | Mark LoMonaco | Bubba Ray Dudley | Requested and received release |
| August 22, 2016 | Devon Hughes | D-Von Dudley | Requested and received release |
| August 30, 2016 | Alberto Rodríguez | Alberto Del Rio | Requested and received release
Move to TNA as Alberto El Patrón. |
2017[]
| February 13, 2017 | Milena Roucka | Rosa Mendes | Retired |
| February 27, 2017 | Kenneth Doane | Kenny | Released |
| February 27, 2017 | Michael Brendli | Mikey | Released |
| March 1, 2017 | Jacob Hager | Jack Swagger | Requested release |
| April 5, 2017 | Seth Lesser | Simon Gotch | Released |
| April 25,2017 | Andrea Ocampo | Andrea D'Marco | Released |
| April 25, 2017 | Christopher Atkins | Chris Atkins | Released |
| April 23rd, 2017 | Yoshihiro Tajiri | Tajiri | No Longer with WWE, Returned to Japaneses independent circuit. |
| July 7th, 2017 | Daniel Solwold Jr | Austin Aries | Released |
| August 3rd, 2017 | Wong Lun | HoHo Lun | Released |
| August 4th, 2017 | Natalie Coyle | Eva Marie | Released |
| October 29th, 2017 | Frederick Douglas Rosser III | Darren Young | Released |
| October 29th, 2017 | Tenille Averil Dashwood | Emma | Released |
| October 29th, 2017 | Danielle Louise Moinet | Summer Rae | Released |
| November 15th, 2017 | James Ellsworth Morris | James Ellsworth | Released |
2018[]
| January 23rd,
2018 |
Eric Arndt | Enzo Amore | Released from contract; While Cruiserweight Champion after sexual assault Allegations. |
| February 15th,
2018 |
Richard Allen Swann | Rich Swann | Released |
| April 9, 2018 | Saraya-Jade Bevis | Paige | Retired. |
| June 19, 2018 | William Morrissey | Big Cass | Released |
| August 24, 2018 | Benjamin Satterly | Neville | Released from contract |
| Septemer 18, 2018 | Amanpreet Singh Randhawa | Mahabali Shera | Released |
| December 14, 2018 | Mikey Nicholls | Nick Miller | Requested and received release. |
2019[]
| February 22, 2019 | Ronald Arneill | Tye Dillinger | Requested and recieved release. |
| Kenta Kobayashi | Hideo Itami | Requested and recieved release. | |
| Theodore Perkins | TJP | Released from contract. |
Died while under contract[]
| Date of Death | Real Name | Ring Name(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 22, 1954 | Roderick McMahon | Jess McMahon | He promoted until his death. |
| June 11, 1976 | Toots Mondt | Toots Mondt | Died after a long illness. |
| July 4, 1994 | Joey Marella | Joey Marella | Died after he fell asleep at the wheel of his vehicle and crashed. |
| October 5, 1997 | Brian Pillman | Brian Pillman | A previously undetected heart condition led to his death. |
| May 23, 1999 | Owen Hart | Owen Hart, The Blue Blazer | Fell to his death while being lowered to the ring from the catwalk of the Kemper Arena at Over The Edge. |
| October 6, 1999 | Robert Marella | Gorilla Monsoon | Died of heart failure after being ill. He was given lifetime employment. |
| November 13, 2005 | Eddie Guerrero | Eddie Guerrero | Died of an acute heart failure, caused by undiagnosed arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease. |
| June 25, 2007 | Chris Benoit | Chris Benoit | Death ruled a double murder-suicide after he killed his wife and child. |
| November 2, 2007 | Lillian Ellison | Fabulous Moolah | Possibly a heart attack or blood clot related to a recent shoulder replacement surgery. |
| June 11, 2015 | Virgil Runnels Jr. | Dusty Rhodes | Died from stomach cancer. |