The wrestling world continues to react to R-Truth’s WWE departure, but few voices carry the passion and personal connection of Adam ‘Pacman’ Jones. The former NFL cornerback didn’t hold back when discussing his former tag team partner’s exit from the company, delivering some choice words about how WWE handled the situation.
Pacman Jones Unleashes on WWE’s Decision
During a recent episode of his Politely Raw podcast, Jones made his feelings crystal clear about WWE’s choice not to renew R-Truth’s contract. The former Tennessee Titans star pulled no punches in his assessment.
“This is bulls**t! A friend of mine, R-Truth, being released by WWE he’s one of the fan’s favorite. I wrestled with him in TNA. This guy is a true professional and the best team mate I’ve ever had. We won the tag team championship together. People are pissed about this, my boy.”
Jones’ emotional response stems from their successful partnership during TNA Wrestling’s golden era. The unlikely duo proved that chemistry can develop between performers from completely different backgrounds.
Contract Non-Renewal vs. Release: Setting the Record Straight
While R-Truth initially described his WWE exit as a release, wrestling insiders have clarified the situation. Both Fightful and PWInsider confirmed that WWE simply chose not to renew Truth’s existing contract rather than actively releasing him.
This distinction matters in the wrestling business, as contract non-renewals typically allow for more amicable partings. However, the end result remains the same – one of WWE’s most beloved characters is no longer with the company.
A Championship Partnership That Defined an Era
The Jones-Truth tandem wasn’t just a publicity stunt – they delivered in the ring when it mattered most. At TNA’s No Surrender pay-per-view in September 2007, the pair shocked the wrestling world by defeating Kurt Angle and Sting for the TNA Tag Team Championship.
Their reign lasted through two successful title defenses before ultimately dropping the gold to AJ Styles and Tomko at Bound For Glory that October. Interestingly, Rasheed Lucius Creed stepped in as Jones’ replacement for that final match, adding another layer to their championship story.
The NFL Connection That Worked
Jones brought legitimate mainstream attention to TNA during his brief wrestling stint. His NFL credentials and natural charisma paired perfectly with Truth’s veteran ring presence, creating one of the more memorable celebrity wrestling partnerships of the 2000s.
“They Dropped the Ball” – Jones Criticizes WWE’s Handling
When pressed about whether WWE should have treated R-Truth better, Jones didn’t hesitate to express his disappointment with the company’s approach.
“Hell yeah, f**king right. He’s a true professional. I’ve never seen him get out of character of what he’s doing, this was his main drive. You don’t even give the fans a last time to see him? They dropped the ball. 100%.”
This criticism touches on a common complaint among wrestling fans – the lack of proper farewell moments for departing talent. Truth’s exit came without the fanfare typically reserved for long-tenured performers.
The Bigger Picture for WWE’s Roster Decisions
R-Truth’s departure highlights WWE’s ongoing roster management challenges. The company continues making tough decisions about veteran talent as they balance entertainment value with business considerations.
Truth’s comedic timing and ability to make any storyline entertaining made him a valuable utility player. His absence will likely be felt more than WWE initially anticipated, especially given the fan reaction to his exit.
As the dust settles on R-Truth’s WWE chapter, one thing remains clear – he earned respect from colleagues across the industry. Will WWE eventually bring back the man who could make championship mix-ups genuinely entertaining, or has the company truly moved on from one of its most reliable performers?
