UPDATE: The following photos of are from the official Twitter account of WWE social media manager Cody Barbierri. This is the guy that Alberto Del Rio slapped at last Tuesday night’s WWE SmackDown TV tapings.

ORIGINAL: Here is the latest in the situation regarding Alberto Del Rio and his release from WWE.
As previously reported, Del Rio was fired after slapping WWE social media manager Cody Barbierri in the face. Barbierri allegedly made a racist comment regarding Del Rio, Del Rio found out and Barbierri refused to apologies for it. At this time, Barbierri is still employed by WWE.
Many backstage were upset to see Del Rio be released, but in the past many have been critical of Del Rio due to him having a cocky and negative attitude. He’s also been involved in several backstage fights including a well publicized one with the original Sin Cara.
Over the last year, Del Rio has stated in several interviews that he was looking to leave WWE once his deal is up. At this time, there is a lot of speculation as to where Del Rio will end up. Many feel that he can and will team again with Ricardo Rodriguez and make appearances, possibly for AAA. AAA launches their US brand in October on the El Rey Network.
We also know that TNA is very interested in him and have already reached out.
Viewership for WWE RAW Show on Netflix – March 16, 2026 – Up
AEW: Swerve Strickland on Violent Matches Needs “To Be Justified, Not Just For The Sake Of It”, Mick Foley on MJF’s Terry Funk Tribute Gear at Revolution 2026, Mercedes Martinez on Not Being “Utilized To Her Full Potential” in AEW
AEW Dynamite Ratings – March 25, 2026 – Highest Viewership Since July 2024




