Luke Harper took to Twitter today to announce that he has requested his release from WWE.
Harper previously tweeted about being concerned or unhappy with his position in WWE going into the WrestleMania 35 Axxess events, where he wrestled Dominik Dijakovic for the Worlds Collide tapings. That match aired this past Sunday on the WWE Network, Harper’s first WWE TV match since last summer. Harper noted in today’s announcement that he is proud of his 6 years with WWE, but asking for his release felt right for himself and WWE.
There’s no word yet on if WWE will grant the release, but we will keep you updated. It was recently reported that WWE was not interested in granting releases due to competition from AEW and other promotions, but some Superstars have been released this year.
You can read Harper’s full statement below:
“As of this evening, I have requested a release from WWE. The past 6 years have been a simply, amazing journey around the world and back with lifelong friends and family. I am proud of it all and proud to say I shared the ring with my co workers.This decision, as difficult as it was, feels right for myself and WWE. My goal in the future is to continue to grow as a performer and person and continue to make my family proud.
Thank you. From the top to the bottom of WWE. Thank you to the fans for your undying support. Thank you everyone.”
According to Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, Harper’s contract is up in November. It was noted that WWE could theoretically hold him for six months after that by freezing his contract for the amount of time that he was out with his recent injury, although it is unlikely.
Last summer Harper elected to undergo surgery on his wrist after Rowan suffered a torn right bicep. This was after the two were repackaged as The Bludgeon Brothers. Harper was cleared for action back in February but has been used sparingly. He competed against Dominik Dijakovic at WrestleMania Axxess and was a participant in this year’s Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal.
As far as what would be next for Harper if he is released, Meltzer stated it is a possibility that he ends up in All Elite Wrestling. One of his closest friends is Chris Harrington, who is now AEW’s Vice President of Business Strategy.
Harper became a pro wrestler in 2003, working as Brodie Lee. He made a name for himself in places like Chikara, Squared Circle Wrestling, All Jersey Pro Wrestling, Dragon Gate and Ring of Honor. While he gained recognition as a singles competitor, Harper has been best known in recent years as one of the members of The Wyatt Family.
Source: Wrestling Inc.
