WWE has been forced to cut ties with several superstars and members of talent due to the impact of the coronavirus on the company.
Vince McMahon's promotion announced on Wednesday that it would implement "short-term cost reductions and cash flow improvement actions" amid the pandemic.
And WWE has released a statement announcing the departure of multiple superstars, including OC members Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows, Drake Maverick and Lio Rush.
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Other on-screen talent and backstage producers that have been put on the chopping block include Kurt Angle, Fit Finlay and Lance Storm.
Posted below are the superstars that have had their contracts with WWE terminated.
- Drake Maverick
- Curt Hawkins
- Luke Gallows
- Karl Anderson
- EC3
- Lio Rush
- Eric Young
- Heath Slater
- Aiden English
- Sarah Logan
- Primo
- Epico
- Erick Rowan
- Mike Kanellis
- Maria Kanellis
- Zack Ryder
- No Way Jose
- Rusev
- Deonna Purrazzo
Also posted below are other members of WWE talent that have been released.
- Kurt Angle
- Gregory 'Hurricane' Helms
- Fit Finlay
- Lance Storm
- Mike Rotunda
- Mike Chioda
WWE is expected to announce even more layoffs going forward as part of their strategy to cut costs.
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Several members of WWE that have been released today have flocked to Twitter to share emotional messages about a dark day in wrestling history for many working in it.
And other WWE superstars have flocked to Twitter to pour out their emotional support to those affected by the layoffs.
According to a WWE press release, the company expects its "reductions of employee compensation and headcount [will] result in an estimated monthly savings of $4 million along with cash flow improvement of $140 million primarily from the deferral in spending on the company's new headquarters."
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The news of the departures follows on from the state of Florida allowing WWE to return to live TV after it was deemed an 'essential service.'
Featured Image Credit: WWE
