10 Most Shocking WWE Roster Cuts EVER

4. Rey Mysterio

The first thing WWE did with Rey Mysterio when they acquired his services in 2002 was to put his mask back on. As insulting as this was to the lucha libre tradition, it was a business masterstroke. 

Mysterio's iconic accessory made him a marketing sensation. He's sold countless masks for the company since he signed for them, aided by the fact that he was one of the most watchable performers on their entire roster. 

By the time 2015 rolled around, he was 40 years old. After decades of insane high spots and general wear-and-tear, his body was knackered. The time seemed right for Mysterio to ride off into the sunset, take a spot in the Hall of Fame, and coach the next generation of luchadors.

Instead, he launched an entirely new phase of his career. 

The former world champion left WWE in 2015 and embarked on an indie run for the ages. Across AAA, Lucha Underground, and even the pre-AEW All In, he reminded everyone that he was just as good as he'd been back in his 90s heyday. 

WWE eventually realised their mistake and rehired Mysterio in 2018.