When we think of icons in the world of professional wrestling, we tend to go for guys like Sting (literally The Icon), Macho Man Randy Savage, Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Undertaker.
I would like to add one more person to that: Ron Killings, also known as R-Truth. For over 30 years, R-Truth has redefined himself in different eras of professional wrestling, in different companies and with different people. On Sunday, Truth announced that his contract wouldn’t be getting renewed with the WWE, making him a free agent for what feels like the first time in a long time.
Im sorry to inform you all. I just got released from WWE. I want to thank WWE for the ride, but MOSTLY I want to thank each and EVERYONE OF YOU who was along for the ride, Thank you for all the love, support, and appreciation you have given me over the years. Thank you
— Ron Killings (@RonKillings) June 1, 2025
R-Truth’s announcement brought so many people from across different promotions together in honoring someone who is a true legend in the world of professional wrestling.
I’ve said many times that there are a few people in this industry for whom I have unlimited respect, love and admiration for. @RonKillings is at the very top of that list.
An incredible, timeless performer with an unmatched ability to entertain and bring a smile to anyone he…
— Kevin (@FightOwensFight) June 1, 2025
Thank you for everything you’ve done for the business, the doors you opened and being a real OG to the whole locker room. Taught me a lot about the game and how to navigate this business. Ron Killings is timeless! ✊ https://t.co/SIrS3UzDQu pic.twitter.com/FQU2yWT0kx
— Carmelo Hayes (@Carmelo_WWE) June 1, 2025
You’re an amazing talent and an even better person. Go enjoy your life unc!
— Ricochet (@KingRicochet) June 1, 2025
It’s because of you, that I decided to become a professional wrestler. At 14 years old, I discovered professional wrestling. The first match I had ever watched was you vs. Mike Knox. Watching that match changed everything for me. Thank you, R Truth for everything you’ve done. https://t.co/11KlqpuxdG
— Legit Leyla Hirsch (@LegitLeyla) June 1, 2025
I love @RonKillings
It’s guaranteed joy when he’s a part of a segment.. He’s also my dad’s favorite WWE Superstar of all time.
The McAfees are bummed aht but we all know R Truth will continue to bless the world with his BIG ass brain
THANK YOU TRUTH pic.twitter.com/ZswYMvQIzi
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) June 1, 2025
As a wrestling fan, R-Truth has been in my world since the day I started watching wrestling. He was consistently bringing comedy to the game in different ways than before. Going from having an imaginary friend named Lil’ Jimmy who he would bring out, to The Awesome Truth team up with The Miz, to an iconic run as the 24/7, 7-11, I-95 champion and finally being John Cena’s biggest fan, Truth brought so much fun to professional wrestling that he would consistently be one of the best moments of any show he’s on.
Even more than that, R-Truth also paved the way for black professional wrestlers on major wrestling tv. Before he got to the WWE, he was the first Black NWA Heavyweight champion, something many people probably didn’t know about him. Truth showed how Black wrestlers can consistently find their way into the consciousness of the professional wrestling world, whether it be through comedy or a more serious tone. When we talk about living legends in wrestling, Truth has to be up there.
The funniest thing is, R-Truth can still do some really cool things in the ring! He’s 53 years old but looks nothing like his age, and moves really well. So, whether it be in the world of pro wrestling, or in music, I think Truth is going to make whatever he does great–because that’s what he’s done his entire career.
