Puerto Rican wrestling icon Carlito—best known for his tenures in WWE and the World Wrestling Council (WWC)—has shared rare insight into his 2025 departure from the company, framing his exit as a natural career transition rather than a setback. In a candid reflection, the former United States Champion and Intercontinental Champion acknowledged the lack of a formal farewell storyline, calling it his only lingering disappointment from the experience.

Carlito, whose real name is Carlos Edwin Colón Coates Jr., entered WWE in 2004 as a charismatic, opinionated performer known for his “cool” persona and signature apple-spitting gimmick. Over two decades, he became a two-time world champion (WWC Universal Heavyweight Championship, won 17 times), a WWE United States Champion, and a WWE Intercontinental Champion. His most recent run began in 2021 with a return at the Royal Rumble, where he later became a key member of the Judgment Day faction alongside Liv Morgan, Dominik Mysterio, and Raquel Rodriguez.

The 47-year-old wrestler, born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and son of wrestling legend Carlos Colón, has since signed with the World Wrestling Council (WWC), where he continues to compete. His departure from WWE, however, was marked by a quiet contract expiration rather than a dramatic on-screen send-off—a detail he addressed with characteristic bluntness.

Contract Negotiations and the ‘Self-Bet’

Carlito revealed that his WWE contract—signed for two years—expired in June 2025 without discussions about renewal. According to verified reports, WWE had initially proposed a three-year deal, but Carlito opted for a shorter term, believing his run might not sustain the same momentum. “I signed for two because I didn’t think it was gonna go as excellent as it did,” he explained. “So, as I said, I bet against myself.”

Though he lost an extra year in the process, Carlito downplayed the miscalculation. “It’s all right,” he said. “I’m a professional. Not being in WWE is not the end of the world.” His only frustration stemmed from the lack of a scripted departure, a tradition common in professional wrestling. “I still had two weeks left. I just wish they would have written me off somehow,” he noted. “Just write me off and I’ll ride off into the sunset.”

Judgment Day and a Legacy in Transition

At the time of his exit, Carlito was a central figure in Judgment Day, a faction that dominated WWE’s Monday Night Raw in 2024–2025. The group’s blend of high-flying athleticism (Mysterio) and dominant power (Liv Morgan) made them one of the most talked-about stables in recent years. Carlito’s role as a veteran presence added gravitas, particularly in his native Puerto Rico, where he helped Bad Bunny overcome Damian Priest in a high-profile San Juan Street Fight at Backlash 2023.

His departure coincided with a broader shift in WWE’s roster dynamics. While Judgment Day remained active, Carlito’s absence left a noticeable void in the faction’s leadership. Fellow members Dominik Mysterio and Raquel Rodriguez have since continued their individual careers, with Mysterio becoming a two-time Intercontinental Champion and Rodriguez solidifying her place as a top women’s competitor.

What’s Next for Carlito?

Since leaving WWE, Carlito has fully committed to WWC, where he remains a dominant force. As of June 2025, he holds the WWC Universal Heavyweight Championship, a title he has won a record 17 times. His return to Puerto Rico’s premier wrestling promotion has been met with widespread acclaim, particularly among fans who remember his early career there.

Asked about future opportunities in WWE or other major promotions, Carlito has remained tight-lipped. “I’m focused on what’s in front of me right now,” he stated in a recent interview. “WWC is home, and I’m building something special there.” His decision to stay in Puerto Rico reflects a personal and professional loyalty to his roots—a contrast to many wrestlers who pursue opportunities abroad.

Key Takeaways

• Contract Exit: Carlito’s WWE departure was due to a two-year contract expiration in June 2025, with no renewal discussions.
• Judgment Day Legacy: His time in the faction was pivotal, though his exit left the group’s dynamics shifted.
• WWC Focus: He has since re-signed with WWC, where he continues to compete and hold the Universal Heavyweight Championship.
• Fan Reception: His return to Puerto Rico’s wrestling scene has been celebrated, particularly among long-time supporters.
• Future Uncertain: Carlito has not ruled out future opportunities but remains committed to WWC for now.

For updates on Carlito’s career and WWC events, follow World Wrestling Council’s official channels. Fans can also track his championship status and upcoming matches through WWE’s alumni section and wrestling news outlets.

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