Steve Cutler Release Update, Reported Backstage Heat From Vince McMahon

Steve Cutler Had Backstage Heat Prior To Release

WWE announced the release of Steve Cutler Thursday evening, following a seven-year run with the company.

According to Fightful Select (subscription required), there was backstage heat on Cutler from WWE management, specifically Vince McMahon after a positive COVID-19 diagnosis in early January. The report notes both Wesley Blake and Steve Cutler were actively trying to return to television, but never ended up resurfacing. Those backstage believe his release stems from that situation.

There was heat on Cutler specifically from Vince McMahon when Cutler was sidelined from WWE TV after contracting COVID-19 in early January.

Steve Cutler recently volunteered himself to assist in ongoing training at the WWE PC, which several WWE stars including Keith Lee and Otis have reportedly been attending. He offered to “bump for the big man class” according to a backstage source in the company.

Shortly after the announcement, Cutler took to Twitter revealing the release was a big shock to him. He also noted a 90-day countdown, referring to a non-compete clause.

Unfortunately, today I was released. It was shocking, to say the least. But, I am excited about the future and all the possibilities in front of me.

Thanks for your continued support.

90 days… the countdown begins🍻🍻

— Steve Maclin (@SteveMaclin) February 5, 2021

Cutler’s partner, IMPACT Wrestling star Deoanna Purrazzo spoke on his release, revealing they both contracted COVID-19 in early January

.@SteveCutlerWWE & I had tested positive for COVID, the beginning of January. We had no symptoms but took all precautions necessary.

Thanks for the well wishes but we are healthy and in good spirits. When one door closes, another opens. ❤️

— The Virtuosa (@DeonnaPurrazzo) February 5, 2021