The Problem With Andrade That No One Wants To Talk About

Andrade WWE
Twitter/@AndradeElIdolo

Andrade took time off after losing to Garza on Raw's 12 October 2020 episode, reportedly to undergo a minor surgical procedure. Reports of an NXT return swirled. Two months later, El Idolo was linked with an onscreen role alongside real-life fiancée Charlotte Flair, a company favourite.

Neither happened. Five months have passed since Andrade's last televised appearance. With the release request, we have likely seen the last of him in WWE.

Objectively, Andrade failed to reach the heights his act warranted. He didn't even come close. A guy that should have become a megastar will go down as another midcard should-have-been - and it isn't his fault.

Though some may point to Andrade's inability to cut lengthy English promos that fit Vince McMahon's erratic, ever-changing tastes as a reason for his failure, this was nullified by Vega. Managers exist to cover such flaws and Zelina was one of the best. This shouldn't have been an issue.

Charisma? Even when wearing a mask as La Sombra, Andrade oozed it. Look at the coolness seeping from the Instagram image posted above. The guy has it.

In-ring ability? Please.

Unquestionably, this isn't an Andrade problem, but a WWE problem, and a systemic issue rather than an individual issue.

WWE's quest to find a new megastar for its Spanish-speaking audience failed again.

CONT'd...

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Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.