WWE Hall of Famer Gerald Brisco has announced that he has been released by the company, bringing his 36-year tenure in Stamford to an end.
"[Okay], want to get this out the right way," Brisco wrote on Twitter. "Last night I received a call from [WWE Chairman of the Board Vince McMahon] to let me know after 36 years of dedication to [WWE, I am] no longer needed. I'm [okay with this]. I will still be around to help talent. More info will follow. Thanks." Numerous current and former WWE employees offered their best wishes to Brisco, including The Iron Sheik, Renee Paquette (Renee Young), Matt Sydal (Evan Bourne) and Dolph Ziggler.
Brisco's release comes amid reports of a new batch of layoffs over at WWE, which have reportedly not affected in-ring talent, but have resulted in the firing of various crew, live events staff, office staff and backstage personnel members. Brisco's firing was actually initially reported earlier this year amid the infamous layoffs brought about by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, though Brisco later clarified that he had not been let go, just furloughed.
An industry veteran whose wrestling career dates back to 1969, Brisco has been employed by WWE (formerly WWF) for 36 years, joining the company as a wrestler alongside his brother and longtime tag team partner Jack Brisco in 1984. Both men retired from in-ring competition by 1985, though Gerald then became a road agent and booker for WWF/WWE. He also appeared on television throughout the late '90s and early 2000s alongside fellow legend Pat Patterson as Vince McMahon's "stooges." After suffering three strokes in 2009, Brisco stepped away from his road agent position and took on a new role as a talent agent in 2010 -- a role he has filled since.
Brisco is a two-time WWF Hardcore Champion and a one-time WWE 24/7 Champion. In 2008, The Brisco Brothers -- Jack and Gerald -- were inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.