Alberto Del Rio suspended by WWE for Wellness Policy violation

WWE announced moments ago that Alberto Del Rio (Jose Rodriguez) will be suspended for 30 days, effective tomorrow (Aug. 18, 2016) for his first violation of their Wellness Policy.

This comes amidst frequent rumors that both Del Rio and WWE officials have been unhappy with his second run with the company, which started last October. There was already chatter that he would be released or somehow get out of his deal (itself rumored to be extremely lucrative) as soon as possible, likely after a year had passed.

The second generation luchador’s first departure from the company was also controversial, as he was allegedly let go after getting physical with a front office employee for making a racist joke at his expense.

Scrutiny of Del Rio’s behavior increased as his relationship with fellow wrestler Paige came to light earlier this year, and as the 24 year old kept their romance high-profile on her social media accounts.

Del Rio was not booked for SummerSlam, so the news doesn’t impact the card for WWE’s big show this weekend in Brooklyn. He was, however, featured prominently in a match against John Cena on last night’s SmackDown Live. As with the last man suspended under the Wellness Policy, Roman Reigns, the company made a point to not only utilize him prior to announcing the move, but also advertise what would turn out to be his last match well in advance.

We’ll have more on this story as it develops.

UPDATE: Paige has also been suspended for 30 days for a Wellness Policy violation.