WWE releases R-Truth and the wrestling community crashes out

The wrestling world was hit with some startling news to start out June. R-Truth announced that he was departing the WWE and at first, everyone thought it was one of his frequent jokes, but the news has since been confirmed.

"I'm sorry to inform you all. I just got released from the WWE," Truth posted on social media. "I want to thank WWE for the ride, but MOSTLY I want to thank each and EVERYONE ONE 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."

According to Fightful Select, WWE is not planning on renewing Truth's contract which is set to expire. Truth was last seen on SmackDown against JC Mateo (formerly Jeff Cobb), who defeated him in just over two minutes. This came a few days after Truth tried to turn Cena from the dark side at WWE Saturday Night's Main Event, failing in the biggest match he's had in recent years.

Fans and performers alike lose it online over R-Truth leaving WWE

R-Truth is one of those performers who epitomized sports entertainment, but is also an icon in professional wrestling for what he's achieved. As of this writing, Truth is 53 years old and has competed for nearly three decades. Throughout that time he's reached some historic points. Truth is the first and only African American to capture the NWA World Heavyweight Champion, holding that belt twice, and he is the first to capture the TNA World Championship. Couple those accolades with several others he earned while in WWE and it's understandable why he gets so much praise in the industry.

"The reaction from the roster was unlike anything we've ever covered - despite covering hundreds of releases and departures," Fightful reported. "The departure was met with complete shock and disbelief, with one top talent calling it "total nonsense." Another called this regime "ruthless." It's by far the most criticized and universally disliked departure we've covered. Throughout Fightful's 9 years of existence, we've never had a backstage source speak ill, or anything less than glowingly of Truth."

Fans and performers alike expressed immediate disdain and sadness for the news.

For those who are familiar with how Endeavor has worked with "legends" in their business practices, this is not surprising. When the company initially purchased the UFC, one of the first actions was to cut several former fighters who were expected to be in background roles since their in-cage careers were over. That did not last long and it looks like the same practice is coming over to the WWE.

R-Truth was perhaps one of the most beloved members of the roster. While his best years were behind him, Truth was known as one of the best in the history of wrestling when it comes to the comedic elements of professional wrestling. Whether it was him getting Brock Lesnar to break character, acting out John Cena's moves, accidentally joining the women's Royal Rumble, his time with Carmella and the 24/7 Championship, or running into the men's Royal Rumble with a ladder - Truth was able to get nearly everyone to laugh and smile at some point.

Fightful Select's report also mentioned the expectation for Truth to garner interest across the independent scene when his time is up.

"There was immediate interest from top indies regarding booking Truth and when his contract was up."

For more news about R-Truth, WWE, and all things professional wrestling, stick with Daily DDT.