AOP Reportedly Retired, Lots Of Interest In Released WWE Superstar

Authors of Pain (AOP) were a dominant tag team in both NXT and WWE’s main roster. Sadly, on March 10, Rezar suffered an injury, sidelining the team. Fast-forward to over a year, and it seems the two have retired.

AOP Reportedly Retired

According to Fightful Select, after AOP’s release from the WWE in September, there had been interest from other companies. But, the tag team hasn’t appeared in other promotions for several reasons.

There was interest from AEW. However, there’s was also speculation on if the tag team was a good fit.

NJPW didn’t recruit the tag team, as it wasn’t a good time for them to “invest” in talent abroad. Apparently, indie promoters have reached out but were told AOP had retired.

AOP Has Retired In Their 20’s?

It’s interesting to note that Akam just turned 28 and Rezar is 26. Both men are at an age where they could easily return to the ring.

It’s unclear if the person stating the AOP was retired is a representative or Rezar and Akam themselves. This seems like a developing story, so WNZ will keep fans up-to-date if any more information is available.

AOP racked up quite the resume during their short time in the WWE. In four years, they won the 2016 Dusty Rhodes Tag Classic, NXT Tag Titles, and RAW Tag Championships.

Rezar and Akam wrestled their last match on the March 9th edition of RAW, 2020. The two teamed up with Seth Rollins and Buddy Murphy to battle the Street Profits and Viking Raiders.

Speaking of Murphy, much like the AOP, he was released from the WWE recently. However, this might be the sign of a new chapter in his career.

Lots Of Interest In Released WWE Superstar

PW Insider reports that Buddy Murphy is getting a lot of interest in the indie scene. The word is that he’s the guy who could create some “dream matches” within the indies.

Many believe that Murphy is a talent that can “bring out” great performances from other wrestlers. There’s a good chance his schedule fills up fast.

That is, once his non-compete expires. Still, the Aussie-born wrestler sure is stirring up some buzz.

WWE Released Superstars Try To Move Forward

Buddy Murphy wasn’t the only superstar let go from the company recently. The WWE Universe was shocked when former Universal Champion, Braun Strowman, was among the list of talent to be released.

The Monster Among Men likes getting those monstrous cheques. Reports have surfaced stating he’s charging five figures for indie shows.

It was not revealed how much Murphy is charging for appearances. However, Buddy could make some decent money, considering how talented he is.

During his 8 years with the WWE, Murphy did well. He acquired the NXT Tag titles (with Wesley Blake), Cruiserweight Championship, and RAW Tag Championship (with Seth Rollins).

Murphy disappeared from WWE television in November 2020. This is when the love angle between him and Aalyah Mysterio was dropped.

He returned to storylines on March 5, 2021, on SmackDown. He tried to re-align with Seth Rollins and was rejected.

His last appearance was on the April 9th edition of SD of this year. He was eliminated by King Corbin during the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal.