Report: Brian Kendrick Asks For WWE Release

Brian Kendrick has asked for his WWE release, according to Mike Johnson of PWInsider.

The former Cruiserweight Champion reportedly asked for his release from the company at least six weeks ago but the promotion have yet to grant his request. 

Kendrick has been working behind the scenes as a producer on NXT and 205 Live since he retired from the ring following his final match in October 2020. PWInsider noted he has not been backstage for "some time."

The former Spanky looked set to come out of retirement in late 2021 on NXT after Harland pushed him down a flight of stairs. A match between the two men was even booked for December 28, but then never happened. 

Kendrick has had several runs in WWE since he first signed a developmental deal back in 2000. He rejoined the promotion for a fourth spell in 2014 and worked as a trainer while also taking on independent wrestling bookings. He then resumed his WWE in-ring career in 2016. 

Mustafa Ali also recently requested his WWE release but the company reportedly have no plans to grant him his request.