The Real Reason Mike Kanellis Wants To Quit WWE

Wantaway star reveals all in new interview.

by Andy H Murray
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WWE

Wantaway WWE Superstar Mike Kanellis has spoken out on his decision to request his release from the promotion during a new appearance on the Smarks and Stripes podcast.

Kanellis said that the move "was all personal." "It had nothing to do with the company," he said, before heaping praise on WWE. "Since the minute I got to WWE they've treated me great. They've treated my wife great, they've treated my daughter great, they've treated me great. When I came out and said that I had an addiction, there was no negativity from anybody - it was just constant support."

Mike continued, saying that the decision was entirely down to him, and "now that my mind is clear, my head is clear... I just wanted to work. I just wanted to wrestle. Like, I feel like I could have my best matches right now and it's extremely difficult when there are so many people on the roster and you just don't get that opportunity."

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Kanellis' last televised appearance came on the 24 September episode of SmackDown, with Chad Gable beating him in 19 seconds.

Dave Meltzer reports in this week's Wrestling Observer Newsletter that Mike is looking to get into motivational speaking.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. 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.