Five-time WWE world champion Alberto Del Rio was released by the professional organization yesterday for what they called "unprofessional conduct" after an "altercation with an employee." However, Dave Meltzer from the Wrestling Observer is offering a more nuanced explanation behind WWE's initial statement. According to Meltzer's report, Del Rio slapped one of WWE's social media managers following a racist joke about Del Rio made by the employee. Though the joke wasn't made directly toward Del Rio, the wrestler heard what happened and went to speak with the social media manager about the remark.
When confronted, the social media manager refused to apologize and then flashed Del Rio a grin. Likely feeling more insulted, Del Rio slapped him in response.
Now, Del Rio is out of professional wrestling for at least three months, pending his 90-day non-compete clause with WWE. It's a strange, unfair result considering that Del Rio was simply standing up for his heritage, if Meltzer's report is accurate. We'll be surprised if this is the last we hear about this story.
[via Uproxx]
