The wrestling world got a rare glimpse behind the curtain as Carlito opened up about his WWE departure in brutally honest fashion. The former Judgment Day member didn’t mince words when discussing his relationship with Triple H and the circumstances surrounding his recent exit from the company.
WWE’s Locker Room Revolution Under Triple H
Carlito painted a picture of dramatic change within WWE’s backstage culture during his Busted Open Radio appearance. The veteran wrestler credited Triple H’s leadership with transforming the company’s notorious toxic atmosphere into something far more professional.
The difference between his two WWE runs couldn’t have been starker. Where once wrestlers walked on eggshells in fear of backstage politics, Carlito found himself genuinely excited to show up for work.
“It was weird, showing up to work happy. It was just, you know, just all the tension and just all the old school bullshit… people walking around on eggshells, you know, because it was the only game in town.”
AEW’s Impact on WWE’s Business Practices
Carlito didn’t shy away from giving AEW credit for WWE’s improved working conditions. The existence of Tony Khan’s promotion has fundamentally shifted the power dynamic between talent and management.
According to the Puerto Rican star, having legitimate alternatives has forced WWE to treat their roster with more respect. The days of bullying talent with nowhere else to go are officially over.
“Now that, you know, with AEW being around too, it’s helped. You know, they can’t bully, because [there’s] a place for people to go… But I think Hunter [Triple H] has done a good job, too, of just cleaning all that crap out.”
The Judgment Day Story That Never Got Its Ending
Perhaps the most frustrating aspect of Carlito’s departure was the abrupt end to his Judgment Day storyline. The veteran expressed genuine disappointment at WWE’s decision to cut his character loose without proper resolution.
His two-year deal exceeded expectations in terms of creative opportunities, but the lack of closure left him feeling disrespected on behalf of the fans. Professional wrestlers understand the business nature of contracts, but Carlito believed the story deserved better treatment.
“The only thing is, I’m a professional… they could have told me, and I would have… at least let me finish out the story for the for the Judgment Day so they can keep on going. I think it’s a disrespect to the fans that… they somebody just dropped storylines.”
Creative Freedom Within WWE’s System
One surprising revelation was the creative control Carlito enjoyed during his recent run. When WWE’s writing team had nothing specific planned for him, they allowed him to “Carlito-fy” segments according to his own vision.
This collaborative approach represents a significant shift from WWE’s historically rigid creative structure. The company’s willingness to incorporate talent input has become a hallmark of the Triple H era.
Triple H’s True Feelings About the Carlito Character
The most shocking admission came when Carlito revealed Triple H’s apparent lack of enthusiasm for his character. Despite their positive personal relationship, the creative disconnect proved insurmountable.
This honest assessment explains why Carlito never received a significant push despite his entertaining performances with The Judgment Day. Sometimes talent and management simply don’t align on creative vision.
“I’m not getting pushed and and Hunter is not a fan of Carlito, I think, personally, he likes me, but I think he never was a big fan of the character.”
From Backlash Return to Farewell
Carlito’s second WWE chapter began with genuine excitement at Backlash 2023 in Puerto Rico. His surprise appearance alongside Bad Bunny created one of the event’s most memorable moments.
That summer return led to a proper comeback at WWE Fastlane in October 2023, setting up nearly two years of solid television work. While the run has ended, Carlito’s transparency about his experience provides valuable insight into modern WWE operations.
With his WWE chapter officially closed, wrestling fans are left wondering where Carlito’s next adventure will take him. Will his candid comments about Triple H burn bridges, or does his professionalism keep doors open for future opportunities?
