In a candid and unfiltered revelation, former WWE personality Matt Camp has opened up about his sudden departure from the company in February, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding his exit in a revealing episode of his podcast, “The Wrestling Matt.” Speaking frankly, Camp shared that his departure was solely a result of cost-cutting measures by WWE, emphasizing that it was not a reflection of his performance or contributions to the brand.
During the podcast, Camp provided insights into the emotional and professional implications of his departure, expressing gratitude for his time with WWE while also addressing the realities of the entertainment industry. His transparency struck a chord with fans and colleagues alike, highlighting the unpredictable nature of careers in sports entertainment and the personal toll such decisions can take.
As Camp continues to navigate his post-WWE journey, his honest reflection on the circumstances of his departure underscores the challenges faced by individuals in the industry, while also sparking discussions about corporate decisions and their impacts on talent. His podcast serves as a platform for both introspection and advocacy within the wrestling community, resonating with audiences who appreciate his authenticity and resilience in the face of adversity.
“I was told by Michael Cole when that happened … it had nothing to do with anything I did; it was a cost-cutting measure,” Camp disclosed. He further elaborated on the lack of acknowledgment from WWE regarding his release, stating, “WWE did not put out any announcement, I just disappeared. I disappeared off ‘The Bump,’ I disappeared off the shows, they made no mention of it, which admittedly I thought was pretty s****y.”
What made the situation even more poignant for Camp was the timing of his release, just weeks after a motivational address at WWE headquarters by TKO board member Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. During this gathering, The Rock had lauded Camp’s contributions, extolling the company’s camaraderie. “I had, three weeks prior to my release, The Rock show up at headquarters [and] tell me what a big family this is, and shaking hands, and ‘Oh, we’re so happy to have you all aboard.’ And I went through these town hall meetings after a bunch of cuts happened, and [they said] ‘You’re still here for a reason’ and then, you’re gone … That tells you what ‘family’ means when you work for a company. It doesn’t mean s***. You’re a number. And that’s what I was.”
Hired in September 2019, Camp quickly became a familiar face on WWE’s digital platforms, hosting popular shows such as “The Bump,” “Talking Smack,” and “Raw Talk.” His departure has left a void, with Megan Connolly Morant and Sam Roberts now taking over the reins of “The Bump.” Camp’s exit is part of a broader trend, with longtime WWE backstage interviewer Kayla Braxton also announcing her departure after nearly eight years with the company.
Stephen’s Insight
Matt Camp’s revelations highlight a disheartening reality behind the glitz and glamour of WWE. His story is a stark reminder of the industry’s ruthless business decisions, where loyalty and camaraderie often take a backseat to the bottom line. Camp’s candidness on his podcast not only provides a glimpse into the inner workings of WWE but also resonates with many in the industry who have faced similar experiences. As the landscape of WWE continues to evolve, the voices of those like Camp are crucial in shedding light on the human side of professional wrestling.