Backstage Note on WWE Clearing Andrade for WWC Uprising Appearance

The surprise appearance of Andrade at WWC’s Uprising event in Puerto Rico has sparked new discussion about how WWE handles outside bookings for its talent. According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE granted Andrade clearance on the final day to work the December 13 show.

WWE had previously blocked Andrade from wrestling for other promotions, including CMLL and New Japan Pro-Wrestling. That made the last-minute approval for the World Wrestling Council feel unusual to industry observers. Dave Meltzer noted that WWE’s decision could lead to confusion, as Andrade was cleared by WWC but remained unavailable to other non-AEW promotions. AEW is being viewed separately as a direct competitor, which explains that restriction, but WWC’s approval raised questions.

WWC, run by Carlos Colón, operates outside WWE’s primary competitive lanes. That distinction may explain why the company felt comfortable allowing the appearance. Even so, the selective nature of the approvals has drawn attention. Andrade not only participated in the event, but he also defeated Xavant to win the WWC Universal Heavyweight Championship.

Andrade returned to the ring tonight on WWC Lockout, and he defeated Xavant to win the WWC Universal Championship!

(Photo from @wwc_pr on Instagram) pic.twitter.com/lhxM6kX1iN

— Fightful Wrestling (@Fightful) December 14, 2025