WWE mainstay receives overwhelming show of support after shocking release from company

Article content

After his nearly two-decade run with World Wrestling Entertainment came to a shocking end over the weekend, the testament to Ron Killings’ legacy isn’t his in-ring work, his promos or his character changes over the years.

It’s not his title history. Not the catchphrases. Not the humorous, unforgettable and original material he left fans in stitches with. Not the fact that he was the oldest (53 years old) WWE talent on the roster yet appeared ageless. Not his character’s obsession with John Cena. Not the fact that he was among the longest-serving and most loyal employees in company history.

But rather, it was the rare, universal outpouring of love for a man who just seemed to love and appreciate what he had been given and what he continued to earn.

Killings, known to wrestling fans as the lovable R Truth, stunned the wrestling world with a simple Tweet on Sunday.

“I’m sorry to inform you all. I just got released from WWE,” he wrote.

“I want to thank WWE for the ride, but MOSTLY I want to thank each and EVERYONE 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”

At first, fans weren’t sure what they’d read was even real. Given Killings’ unique and creative sense of humour, many suggested it was a “work,” lingo for wrestling storyline. But soon, the tributes began to pour in Killings.

In my nearly 30-year career covering WWE, not a soul has ever uttered anything but love and respect for Killings., who broke into the business in the late 1990s as K-Kwik.

Killings’ former tag-team partner, The Miz, was among those who paid homage to Killings on X following his departure.

“Forming Awesome Truth with you was one of the best runs of my career. No one made me laugh harder. Your energy, heart, and smile lit up every room…and every arena. You’re not one of a kind, you’re one in a lifetime. Love you, Truth. Keep shining.”

As did ECW legend and Busted Open co-host Tommy Dreamer: “He steals every scene he is in. WHAT’S UP WHAT’S UP HIT ME UP.”

Canadian Kevin Owens posted a touching tribute.

“I’ve said many times that there are a few people in this industry for whom I have unlimited respect, love and admiration for,” he wrote.

“@RonKillings is at the very top of that list. An incredible, timeless performer with an unmatched ability to entertain and bring a smile to anyone he encounters, be it the fans or every single person lucky enough to have had the privilege to work alongside him. His kindness, humility and infectious good nature makes him one of the most beloved people I’ve met in this industry and the void that his absence will leave in our locker room is immeasurable. I love you, dude.”

Even the current WWE Undisputed champion, John Cena, posted a rare specific post to his X account, which is reserved for motivating posts and few personal recollections, posting a picture of Killings sporting his Cena-themed attire that he wore when the two faced off a week earlier in a match at Saturday Night’s Main Event, which proved to be Killings’ swan song.

Sometimes, when someone is released or simply not signed to a new contract, as a fan, you can say to yourself, ‘Oh, I can understand.’ Maybe that talent had been off TV for a while, or simply not been being used effectively. Perhaps injuries or Father Time had slowed them down. Or maybe creatively, it just wasn’t working.

None of that logic applies in this instance. Killings was, pun intended, killing it. But, the harsh reality of life is that sometimes, tough decisions are made. This appears to have been that case.

Whatever the case, Killings’ loss will be felt by fans of WWE. His comedic timing, his sheer love for the business, his ageless abilities. And, most importantly, the respect among his peers.

Hey Truth. Thank you.