WWE

Jerry 'The King' Lawler Is Done With WWE As The New Era Moves Forward

Originally posted on Ringside Intel | By John Deegan | Last updated 5/8/24

In a bit of notable news, Jerry “The King” Lawler is done with WWE as the new era moves forward without the longtime fixture.

Jerry “The King” Lawler has had a Hall of Fame career, and he has the ring to prove it. He made a name for himself in and out of the ring. While he may be a favorite son of Memphis, wrestling fans around the globe surely know who he is. He arrived in WWE in 1992. During that time, he worked as both an in-ring performer as well as an on-air personality. For years, he and Jim Ross served as the voices of RAW. In recent years, however, we have seen and heard less of The King. His absence was largely linked to a series of medical episodes, including a recent stroke. Some fans may even recall that Lawler once suffered a heart attack while on air during RAW.

He fit right in with the Attitude Era, happy to chime in with a crude remark about puppies or some other double entendre. But that edgy or risque commentary grew old, and did not fit with the new family friendly vision. Lawler was phased out, but kept around. He had a good relationship with Vince McMahon, and having him function under even a Legends deal made sense.

Time to move on

Screenshot Credit: WWE

However, the old regime is gone, and those who remain are clearing out the last remnants. Per PWInsider, Lawler’s most recent deal had run it’s course. Rather than continue to keep him on in any off air capacity, WWE and TKO decided to allow The King’s contract to expire. Such a move makes sense, especially as the company does appear to be trying to control certain costs. Lawler was an easy renewal for Vince McMahon, but Vince isn’t around anymore. The only thing Vince is doing for the new era of WWE leadership is cause pain over the pending litigation.

It may be sad to consider Jerry “The King” Lawler no longer part of WWE. However, WWE have long since moved on from him relative to the announce teams. Plus, given his ongoing health concerns, having him contribute in any behind the scenes capacity was unlikely. Now, he is no longer in the company. If he actually wanted to, he could reunite with Jim Ross in AEW. However, given his health, such a reunion seems exceedingly unlikely, outside of maybe a brief cameo.

This article first appeared on Ringside Intel and was syndicated with permission.

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