Ric Flair departed WWE (then known as the World Wrestling Federation or WWF) in 1993 primarily because of a verbal agreement he had with Vince McMahon. This agreement stipulated that he would be released from his contract if he was not being utilized in a main event position and simultaneously received an offer to work elsewhere.
The Nature Boy's Departure from WWE
Ric Flair's tenure in the WWF, while impactful, concluded relatively quickly due to specific conditions surrounding his employment. His decision to leave was not arbitrary but was a direct consequence of a pre-arranged understanding with WWF Chairman, Vince McMahon.
Key factors that led to Flair's departure include:
- Verbal Agreement with Vince McMahon: Flair had a unique verbal agreement with Vince McMahon. This understanding was crucial: if he was not going to be used in a main event position within the company, and if he received an offer to go to another wrestling promotion, he would be granted his release.
- Change in On-Screen Role: As his time in the WWF progressed, there was a decision to move Ric Flair into a mid-card position. This shift meant he would no longer be featured in the top-tier storylines and matches, which directly triggered the conditions set forth in his verbal agreement regarding main event usage.
- Offer to Return to WCW: Concurrently with his role being downgraded in the WWF, Ric Flair received an offer from Bill Watts to return to World Championship Wrestling (WCW). WCW was a promotion where Flair had previously been a cornerstone, achieving significant success and holding multiple championships.
With the conditions of his verbal agreement met—a reduced role in the WWF and an offer from WCW—Ric Flair opted to leave the WWF. He subsequently returned to WCW, continuing his legendary career.
For more information on Ric Flair's storied career, you can visit his Wikipedia page.
