While the question implies Ric Flair was fired by WWE (then WWF), the reality is that Ric Flair was not fired by WWE; he chose to leave the company in 1993 due to a pre-existing verbal agreement and an opportunity to return to World Championship Wrestling (WCW).
The Circumstances of Ric Flair's Departure from WWE (WWF)
Ric Flair's exit from the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in 1993 was the result of a specific understanding he had with then-WWF Chairman Vince McMahon, coupled with a change in his projected role within the company and a lucrative offer from a competitor.
The Verbal Agreement
When Ric Flair initially joined the WWF, he had a crucial verbal agreement with Vince McMahon. This agreement stipulated that if he was not going to be utilized in a main event position and subsequently received an offer to work elsewhere, he would be granted a release from his contract. This clause provided Flair with a unique level of control over his future in the promotion.
Shift in Role and New Opportunity
As his tenure progressed, Flair learned that the WWF intended to move him from a prominent main event role to a mid-card position. This change in creative direction was a significant factor. Concurrently, he received an appealing offer from Bill Watts to return to World Championship Wrestling (WCW), where he had previously achieved iconic status. Given the terms of his agreement with McMahon, Flair opted to exercise his right to leave the WWF and accept the offer from WCW.
Key Factors Leading to Flair's Exit
- Contractual Understanding: A verbal agreement with Vince McMahon that allowed for his release if his main event status was compromised and he had an outside offer.
- Creative Direction: The WWF's decision to shift him from a top-tier performer to a mid-card role, which did not align with his established position as "The Real World's Champion."
- WCW Offer: An attractive opportunity to return to his former promotion, WCW, and likely resume a prominent role.
This combination of factors facilitated Flair's departure, making it a voluntary decision on his part rather than a termination by the company. For more information on Ric Flair's career, you can visit his Wikipedia page.
