Why Did WWE Cut Cain Velasquez?

Why Did WWE Cut Cain Velasquez?

When WWE released former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez from his contract, it sent shockwaves through the wrestling and MMA communities. Fans were left wondering why a highly talented and accomplished athlete like Velasquez was let go. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind WWE’s decision to cut ties with the former MMA star.

The Brock Lesnar Feud

One of the main reasons for WWE’s decision to release Velasquez was his lackluster feud with Brock Lesnar. The two athletes had a history dating back to their time in UFC, creating a lot of anticipation for their showdown in WWE. However, the feud failed to live up to expectations.

Velasquez’s limited experience in professional wrestling became apparent during his matches with Lesnar. His inability to execute moves fluidly and lack of charisma on the mic made it difficult for fans to connect with him as a wrestler. The lukewarm response from audiences ultimately led to WWE reconsidering his future in the company.

Injury Concerns

Another factor that contributed to Velasquez’s release was his injury history. Throughout his career in both UFC and WWE, he has dealt with multiple injuries, including knee and back problems. These injuries not only affected his in-ring performance but also hindered his ability to commit fully to the demanding schedule of a professional wrestler.

In an industry where performers are expected to be available for weekly shows and regular tours, Velasquez’s injury-prone nature became a liability for WWE. The company needs wrestlers who can consistently perform at a high level without risking further injury or jeopardizing storylines due to sudden absences.

Lack of Development

While many fans were excited to see Velasquez transition from MMA to professional wrestling, his lack of development as a character became a stumbling block. Unlike other successful crossover athletes such as Ronda Rousey, Velasquez struggled to find his footing in WWE’s scripted environment.

Wrestling requires performers to develop unique personas and connect with the audience on an emotional level. Unfortunately, Velasquez’s limited time in WWE did not provide him with enough opportunities to develop a compelling character beyond his MMA background. This lack of character development made it challenging for fans to fully invest in his journey as a wrestler.

In Conclusion

While Cain Velasquez’s release from WWE may have come as a surprise to many, there were several factors that contributed to the decision. The underwhelming feud with Brock Lesnar, injury concerns, and lack of character development all played a role in WWE’s choice to cut ties with the former UFC champion.

It remains to be seen what the future holds for Cain Velasquez in the world of professional wrestling or MMA. However, one thing is certain – his time in WWE will be remembered as a missed opportunity for both him and the company.