WWE announced a wave of talent releases on Friday afternoon.
In separate 1-line statements at WWE.com, the company stated it has “come to terms on the release” of Hideo Itami, TJP and Tye Dillinger.
Itami reportedly asked for his release late last month after nearly five years with WWE.
Thanks again.
See you soon as KENTA #GO2SLEEP #GAMEOVER #BUSAIKUKNEE https://t.co/cCQRj2GsMK— KENTA (@HideoItami) February 22, 2019
Cruiserweight Classic winner TJ Perkins and Tye Dillinger have both vented publicly about their frustrations. Dillinger issued a statement earlier this week telling fans on social media that he requested to be released. He expressed gratitude for his time with WWE and wrote,
“To the male and female locker rooms, coaches and producers, to the production/ring crew, all the way up to the very top of WWE and most of al the fans…I wish you all the very best and thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything.”
TJP wrote the following in response to WWE’s announcement:
Thanks for giving me a chance and letting me play for the team I grew up watching ????? https://t.co/r7001mqjx2
— ?? TEDDY PLAYER ONE ?? (@MegaTJP) February 22, 2019
As noted early Friday morning, WWE Hall of Famer Arn Anderson has also been released. Anderson had been working with talent backstage as a producer. AEW Executive Vice President Cody Rhodes commented on AA’s situation:
Love AA. I stole all of his catchphrases & use them on a daily basis. He went to bat for young talent & at the same time is essentially responsible for all of the current top guys & “golden circle”. He’s not corporate, but that’s a compliment. Can’t take wrestlers outta wrestling
— Cody Rhodes (@CodyRhodes) February 22, 2019
We will provide an update if there are any more releases today.
