18 Biggest Wrestling Stories Of 2017

7. July - Austin Aries Quits

Austin Aries
WWE.com

2017 has seen the usual array of WWE releases, but few of them caught us by surprise as much as that of Austin Aries.

The star of the cruiserweight division, having recently concluded a top-notch programme opposite Neville, dramatically left the company in July, apparently unhappy with his low-key role on the purple roster. Almost as soon as the news broke, the freed star took to Twitter to express his satisfaction, noting it was a "beautiful day".

It was originally speculated that Aries had chosen to walk out of the company by his own volition, though it later emerged the decision was more mutual than initially reported, with speculation of behind-the-scenes dissatisfaction regarding the performer's attitude rife. 'A Double' adopted an air of magnanimity when he broke his silence on the split, wishing WWE "continued health, happiness, and success."

Since his release, Austin has appeared both on Impact and at the House of Hardcore. He also shaved off his beard. Apparently a fresh start needs a fresh face.

Editorial Team
Editorial Team

Benjamin was born in 1987, and is still not dead. He variously enjoys classical music, old-school adventure games (they're not dead), and walks on the beach (albeit short - asthma, you know). He's currently trying to compile a comprehensive history of video game music, yet denies accusations that he purposefully targets niche audiences. He's often wrong about these things.