WWE Refusing To Release Neville?

But Stone Cold Steve Austin Backs Former Cruiserweight Champion's Exit Plan...

By Michael Hamflett /

WWE.com

Despite his tempestuous walkout before the October 9th edition of Monday Night Raw, Neville has yet to formally part ways with WWE.

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Sports Illustrated have since reported that the Geordie star will simply be left on the payroll until his contract officially expires, unless the two sides can mend fences in the interim.

Neville's frustration allegedly built following months of frustration with his under-appreciated 205-and-under role. Despite contesting some of the finest matches this year, the 'King Of The Cruiserweights' was often criminally ignored. His WrestleMania 33 kickoff opener was even left off of the official DVD - a move that partially triggered opponent Austin Aries' own departure in July.

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Company icon Stone Cold Steve Austin has spoken publicly on the situation, drawing natural comparisons between the situation and his own incensed 2002 exit.

He said, “Well, my situation when I walked out, I wasn’t on board with the direction creative wanted to go. I was working my ass off and I just was not happy with that decision.”

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Noting Neville's superlative skills, 'The Rattlesnake' continued, “I can respect the guy that has enough balls to walk away just because he had a gut feeling like I did. He is an outstanding talent...he was a guy that I really liked watching. Hopefully he gets past this and whether he goes back to WWE or goes somewhere else, I hope he continues to have a successful career and have fun. At the end of the day, pro-wrestling, to be able to get paid to do that, it’s a fun job but it is a business and you need to get paid accordingly.”