Drew McIntyre helped 38-year-old star in a big way to overcome alcohol addiction after his WWE exit
A former WWE Superstar openly discussed his struggles with alcohol addiction after leaving the company. However, it was Drew McIntyre who helped him in a big way.
Ricardo Rodriguez joined the Stamford-based promotion in 2010 as Alberto Del Rio's personal ring announcer, evolving into an entertaining character with comedic timing. He even wrestled occasionally, notably defeating Roman Reigns in FCW.
During an appearance on Chris Van Vliet's INSIGHT, the former ring announcer admitted struggling with alcohol abuse after leaving the Sports Entertainment Giant in 2014. Feeling lost and aimless, Ricardo Rodriguez turned to excessive drinking, even consuming entire boxes of wine alone.
Recognizing the severity of his addiction, the 38-year-old star sought help from Drew McIntyre, who facilitated his entry into WWE's wellness program for rehabilitation.
"So I got in contact with WWE, and this is where a good friend of mine Drew McIntyre comes in. I sent Drew a message, and I was like, 'Hey, can you find out the information of the wellness policy, who's in charge or something.' So then he dug around, and he got me the info. I contacted WWE because of that, and it just yeah, it became a thing and that's how we got connected," Rodriguez said. [H/T: CVV]
Check out the video below:
Triple H and Vince McMahon granted Ricardo Rodriguez his WWE release upon request
Ten years ago, Rodriguez left the Stamford-based promotion due to creative differences and personal reasons. The 38-year-old star aimed to pursue more in-ring opportunities on the independent circuit.
During the same interview with Chris Van Vliet of INSIGHT, Ricardo Rodriguez stated that he initiated a conversation with the then-senior Director of Talent Relations, Mark Carrano. After consulting with Vince McMahon and Triple H, the 38-year-old was officially granted his release, leaving the door open for a potential WWE return.
"He said, ‘Alright, stay home. Let me talk to Vince and Hunter, and I’ll call you back.’ I said, ‘Cool, no big deal.’ He called me back on Wednesday around 5 o’clock and said, ‘Hey, I just talked to Paul and Vince, and we’re going to grant you the release. You’re always welcome to come back, blah blah.’ I said, ‘Alright, thank you.'” [H/T RSN]
It remains to be seen if Alberto Del Rio's former ring announcer makes his return to the Stamford-based promotion somewhere down the line.