Ron “R-Truth” Killings, a fixture in WWE programming for nearly two decades, announced Sunday that he has officially been released from the company.
Killings posted on his official X account: “I’m sorry to inform you all. I just got released from WWE. 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.”
The announcement quickly prompted an outpouring of messages from fellow wrestlers, many of whom reflected on Killings’ contributions and legacy as a respected performer in WWE for 17 years.
Kevin Owens led the tributes, writing on X: “I’ve said many times that there are a few people in this industry for whom I have unlimited respect, love and admiration for. @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.”
The Miz, who teamed with Killings as part of “The Awesome Truth” during a memorable run in 2011, posted to X: “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.”
Natalya Neidhart added her own tribute, writing: “You are a class act @RonKillings. You were amazing to me since day one when I met you doing my first independent wrestling show in the U.S. Last week I loved seeing how excited you were for the championship match against John Cena. You remind everyone around the world to never give up on their dreams.”
Many other tributes poured in from his peers, including Rhea Ripley and Pat McAfee.
Other wrestlers who replied to his tweet include Alexa Bliss, Scarlett Bordeaux, Jade Cargill and Trinity Fatu who noted, “I hate this so much.”
“Thank you Truth. For everything. Everything you are as a performer but also everything you are as a person,” wrote Zelina Vega, the women’s United States champion. “You always have an ear and a hug for everyone, you were always so kind to me whether it was an extra just coming in looking to you for advice or as a co-worker getting to laugh with you every week. You’re forever a star, a genius, a pro and someone who’s presence will always be felt. You’re cemented in history as one of the BEST. Love you!!”
Killings’ WWE career was notable inside the ring, too.
He held the United States Championship twice and was a two-time WWE tag champ — once with Kofi Kingston and once with Miz.
He also became synonymous with the chaotic 24/7 Championship, claiming the title a record-setting 54 times.
Killings recently headlined “Saturday Night’s Main Event” against Cena.
Before his WWE resurgence, Killings made history in TNA as the first recognized black NWA World Heavyweight Champion.