Today, June 1, 2025, reports have emerged confirming the unexpected release of R-Truth from WWE. This news comes as a shock to the WWE Universe, as Truth has been one of the most consistently entertaining and beloved superstars on the roster for well over a decade. As we process this surprising development, let’s take a look back at the incredible, multifaceted career of Ron Killings, a true innovator and joy to watch in professional wrestling.
WWF Debut as K-Kwik (1999-2001) Ronnie Killings first burst onto the national wrestling scene in 1999 as K-Kwik in the World Wrestling Federation. He quickly formed a dynamic tag team with the veteran Road Dogg, showcasing his impressive athleticism and unique rapping style. During this initial run, K-Kwik also managed to capture the prestigious WWF Hardcore Championship twice, establishing himself as a versatile performer before his departure from the company in 2001.
TNA/NWA World Heavyweight Champion (2002-2007) After his first stint with WWF, Killings moved to Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) in 2002, reinventing himself as Ron “The Truth” Killings. Here, he made history by becoming the first African-American to win the NWA World Heavyweight Championship, a title he held twice. He also added NWA and TNA Tag Team Championships to his resume, solidifying his status as a main event talent and a cornerstone of the emerging TNA promotion before his WWE return in 2008.
WWE Return (2008) In 2008, Ron Killings made his highly anticipated return to WWE, now under the familiar moniker of R-Truth. He quickly re-established himself as a fan favorite on the SmackDown brand, captivating audiences with his distinct blend of athleticism, unique charisma, and often quirky personality. His return marked the beginning of a new chapter that would see him become one of WWE’s most enduring and beloved figures.
United States Champion (2010) R-Truth secured his first singles championship in his second WWE run by defeating The Miz for the United States Championship on May 24, 2010. This victory was a significant milestone, cementing his status as a credible mid-card champion capable of holding his own against top competitors. His reign showcased his ability to deliver consistent performances as a titleholder.
Awesome Truth Formation (2011) In a surprising and memorable heel turn, R-Truth transformed into a paranoid and increasingly unhinged character in 2011, famously associating with an imaginary friend named “Little Jimmy.” This new persona led to his notorious alliance with The Miz, forming the tag team “Awesome Truth.” Their unexpected pairing propelled them to the main event of Survivor Series 2011, where they faced the dream team of John Cena and The Rock.
WWE Championship Contention (2011) R-Truth’s erratic heel persona reached its peak during a high-profile rivalry with John Cena. This intense feud culminated in a WWE Championship match at Capitol Punishment in June 2011. While he didn’t capture the title, this period showcased R-Truth as a legitimate, albeit unpredictable, main event challenger, demonstrating his ability to rise to the occasion against WWE’s top stars.
Tag Team Champion with Kofi Kingston (2012) After his heel run, R-Truth transitioned back to a beloved babyface role and formed a dynamic tag team with Kofi Kingston. Their athletic and high-flying style made them a popular duo with the fans. Together, they defeated Primo & Epico to win the WWE Tag Team Championship, enjoying a solid reign as champions and delivering exciting tag team action.
Consistent Mid-Card Presence (2013-2016) Throughout these years, R-Truth remained a consistent and highly valued presence on WWE programming. He often engaged in various comedic alliances and storylines, maintaining his unique, eccentric, and lovable personality. This period further highlighted his remarkable versatility and ability to seamlessly fit into different roles across the roster, always providing entertainment.
The Golden Truth (2016-2017) R-Truth formed a highly entertaining, often purely comedic, tag team with the equally eccentric Goldust, affectionately dubbed “The Golden Truth.” Their antics revolved around Goldust’s persistent and bizarre attempts to form the team, leading to numerous hilarious backstage segments and in-ring performances that endeared them to fans, even without championship gold.
Alliance with Carmella & Mixed Match Challenge (2018-2019) R-Truth formed a hugely popular and charismatic alliance with Carmella, creating a fan-favorite odd couple. Together, they won the second season of the Mixed Match Challenge tournament, earning a vacation and spots in their respective Royal Rumbles. Their undeniable chemistry led to the highly entertaining “Dance Break” segments, which quickly became a viral sensation.
Record 24/7 Champion (2019-2022) R-Truth became absolutely synonymous with the 24/7 Championship, holding the title a staggering and record 54 times. His endless pursuit of the title, often involving unexpected pinfalls, hilarious chases in various non-wrestling locations, and bizarre disguises, provided countless comedic highlights and made him the face of the championship’s chaotic nature.
WrestleMania 40 Tag Team Champions (2024) In a monumental career highlight, R-Truth, alongside his long-time tag team partner The Miz, achieved a career dream by winning the World Tag Team Championship at WrestleMania 40. This emotional victory marked his first official win at WrestleMania on the main card and was a joyous culmination of their tag team journey, receiving a massive pop from the live crowd.
The Judgment Day Angle (2023-2025) R-Truth’s most recent major storyline saw him comically insisting he was a core member of The Judgment Day, despite the faction repeatedly denying his inclusion. His consistently hilarious and often absurd interactions with Damien Priest, Finn Balor, Dominik Mysterio, and Rhea Ripley led to some of WWE’s most entertaining segments, cementing his role as a beloved comedic genius and a highlight of Raw.
Royal Rumble Antics Beyond specific angles, R-Truth is legendary for his consistently funny moments in Royal Rumble matches. These often involve him mistakenly believing he’s in a ladder match and attempting to use non-existent ladders for eliminations or his accidental, yet hilarious, entry into the Women’s Royal Rumble. These spots are always highly anticipated by fans.
24/7 Championship Shenanigans His segments involving the 24/7 Championship provided some of the most consistent and creative comedic gold in recent WWE history. His feuds, particularly with Drake Maverick, were full of absurd chases through airports, golf courses, and even weddings, featuring comical disguises and unexpected title changes in unusual places.
Making Brock Lesnar Laugh A truly iconic and unexpected moment happened during a Raw segment where R-Truth’s unique personality and improvised lines caused “The Beast Incarnate” Brock Lesnar to genuinely break character. Lesnar visibly laughed on live television, highlighting R-Truth’s incredible ability to entertain anyone, even one of wrestling’s most stoic and intimidating figures.
Signature Catchphrase His theme song and iconic catchphrase, “What’s Up?”, became a universal fan favorite chant that transcends generations. It’s instantly recognizable and consistently gets the crowd hyped and involved, showcasing his enduring connection with the WWE Universe and his ability to rally an audience whenever his music hits.
R-Truth’s journey in professional wrestling has been nothing short of extraordinary. From his early days as K-Kwik to his historic runs in TNA and his incredible resurgence as a beloved comedic and in-ring performer in WWE, he has consistently defied expectations and brought joy to millions. His unique talent, infectious personality, and ability to make audiences laugh will be sorely missed on WWE television. We extend our best wishes to Ron Killings, hoping for nothing but success and happiness in whatever path he chooses next, whether it’s further wrestling endeavors or new ventures beyond the squared circle. What’s Up, Truth? We’ll miss you.
