WWE Hall of Famer Teddy Long believes a language barrier contributed too Andrade’s departure from WWE. Long discussed the situation during a recent interview, suggesting Andrade struggled to connect with the audience due to dialog difficulties.
Andrade, whose real name is Manuel Andrade Ocampo, signed with WWE in 2015 and was released in November 2021. While his in-ring talent was widely recognized, Long posits that Andrade’s limited English proficiency hindered his ability to build a strong rapport with fans-a crucial element for success in professional wrestling. “He’s a great talent, no doubt about it,” Long stated. “But sometimes, if you can’t talk to the people, if you can’t get out there and connect with them, it’s gonna be hard.”
This issue isn’t new for international stars transitioning to WWE. The company’s primary audience is English-speaking, and the ability to deliver compelling promos and interact with fans is often seen as essential for reaching the top tier. Andrade is currently competing in AEW, where he has found success alongside his wife, Charlotte Flair. His move to AEW allows him to possibly showcase his skills without the same linguistic pressures he faced in WWE. The situation highlights the challenges faced by non-English speaking performers in a market where charisma and communication are highly valued.
