Braun Strowman was released from his WWE contract this week in a move that stunned many fans. The Monster of All Monsters had been actively involved in ongoing storylines on SmackDown, making his departure all the more surprising. However, new backstage reports have now shed light on the real reason behind the former Universal Champions release from the Stamford-based promotion.
According to Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, Braun Strowmans salary was a key factor in his WWE release. The company reportedly believed they were paying him more than his current usage justified. While there may be additional underlying reasons, financial considerations were said to be at the heart of the decision.
The 41-year-old was previously released by WWE in 2021. However, he was re-signed in September 2022 after Triple H took over the companys creative direction. Since his return, Strowman has been part of several notable storylines, with his most prominent feud in the past year being against Bronson Reed and Jacob Fatu.
Most recently, the former Universal Champion suffered a hard-fought loss to Jacob Fatu in a Last Man Standing Match on the April 4, 2025, episode of SmackDown. He subsequently missed this years WrestleMania before being released by the company. Following his departure, the 41-year-old shared a cryptic post on social media, raising questions about the future of his professional wrestling career.
It will be interesting to see where Braun Strowmans career heads once his 90-day non-compete clause expires.
Did Braun Strowman truly deserve a high paycheck from WWE, or was the company right in its decision to let him go? Let us know what you think in the comments.
