Luke Harper requests release from WWE

In a statement posted on his social media accounts this afternoon, Luke Harper revealed that he’s requested his release from WWE:

As of this evening, I have requested a release from WWE. The past 6 years have been a simply, amazing journey around the world and back with lifelong friends and family. I am proud of it all and proud to say I shared the ring with my co workers.

This decision, as difficult as it was, feels right for myself and WWE. My goal in the future is to continue to grow as a performer and person and continue to make my family proud.

Thank you. From the top to the bottom of WWE. Thank you to the fans for your undying support. Thank you everyone.

UPDATE: Dave Meltzer notes that the 39-year-old Harper hasn’t been given his release as of this moment, he’s only asked for it. Harper didn’t state what WWE’s response to his request was in his statement.

After undergoing wrist surgery while Erik Rowan was also out of action, Harper returned to the ring at a house show in March. He was an entrant in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal at WrestleMania 35 and defeated Dominik Dijakovic at WrestleMania Axxess, with their match airing as part of the NXT Alumni vs. NXT Worlds Collide special on the WWE Network.

Harper wasn’t used on television on Raw or SmackDown since returning from injury. Rowan returned at the Royal Rumble in January and aligned with Daniel Bryan in storyline.

On February 19, Tye Dillinger publicly stated that he had requested his release from WWE. WWE then announced Dillinger’s release on February 22.