Report: Backstage News On Roderick Strong's WWE Exit

Roderick Strong is officially All Elite, having debuted on last night's edition of AEW Dynamite.

Following his surprise appearance, more details have emerged regarding what led to his WWE exit.

Per a new report from Fightful Select, the former NXT North American Champion signed a new deal in 2021 and had requested his release last year (which was initially rejected).

When he signed his new deal in 2021, Strong was set to be the focal point of a revamped cruiserweight division, though plans changed when Paul 'Triple H' Levesque fell out of power. Similarly, the Diamond Mine stable also changed significantly over time after various members were released.

There was a discussion about pitching him to act as a coach for the remainder of his contract, which was believed to run into next year. Strong had been off television for months and hadn't been to the WWE Performance Center in a while.

Talent had been kept in the dark about his absence, though it was said that those close to him claimed he was doing well physically and was cleared to wrestle.

It was noted that Strong's signing was viewed as a pleasant surprise by those backstage as he is generally well-liked within the industry.