Carlito Exits WWE, Returns to Puerto Rico

Carlos Edwin Colón Coates Jr., known to wrestling fans worldwide as Carlito, has announced his departure from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). His current contract is set to expire in late June 2025 and will not be renewed by the company.

Carlito shared the news in a lighthearted manner on X (formerly Twitter), even joking about potentially owning the company. He then added a heartfelt message, stating, “All jokes aside, gracias WWE & especially the WWE universe. Los quiero mucho!” This marks the end of his most recent tenure with the global wrestling giant.

Carlito’s Recent WWE Run and Roles

Carlito’s latest stint with WWE began with a memorable return in 2023.

Backlash Return and Judgment Day Role

His re-entry into WWE programming was a surprise appearance at the premium live event, Backlash, held in Puerto Rico. During this event, Carlito assisted international music superstar Bad Bunny in a high-profile match. Following this impactful return, Carlito spent the majority of his recent time in a supporting capacity.

He was notably a member of the popular villainous faction, The Judgment Day, often providing comic relief and backstage interactions. One of the more notable moments during this period was a spear delivered to him by rising star Bron Breakker.

A Career Spanning Decades: Carlito’s WWE History

Carlito’s connection with WWE extends back over two decades, marked by various appearances.

WWE's Carlito wins the WWC Puerto Rico Championship at WWC Summer Madness! 👇

WWC is owned by Carlito's father, Carlos Colon.

📸 Lucha Libre Onlinepic.twitter.com/VmPuf6mSQY

— WrestleTalk (@WrestleTalk_TV) June 1, 2025

Multiple Stints and Notable Moments

Carlito originally joined WWE in 2003, establishing himself as a notable figure before his departure in 2010. After his initial exit, the Puerto Rican wrestler made only a few sporadic appearances on WWE programming. These included inducting his father, Carlos Colón, into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2014, and participating in the 2021 Royal Rumble match, which garnered a huge fan reaction. He then made his full-time return in 2023 at Backlash, leading to his most recent run.

Carlito’s WWE Career Achievements

Throughout his time in WWE, Carlito achieved significant success, capturing multiple championships.

Championship Gold

Carlito’s career in WWE is decorated with several prestigious titles. He is a former United States Champion, having won the title early in his first run. He also held the Intercontinental Championship, a highly respected singles title. In the tag team division, Carlito secured both the WWE Tag Team Championships and the World Tag Team Championship, showcasing his versatility as a performer. These accolades highlight his impact and memorable presence in the company.

What’s Next: Returning to His Roots

Despite his departure from WWE, Carlito shows no signs of slowing down his professional wrestling career.

Reigning Champion in Puerto Rico

At 46 years old, Carlito recently achieved a significant milestone by winning the World Wrestling Council (WWC) Puerto Rican Championship. This victory came at WWC Summer Madness 2025 in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, where he defeated Ray González. This marks his second reign with the WWC Puerto Rico Championship.

This return to his home promotion, WWC, holds deep personal significance for Carlito. He originally began his professional wrestling journey with WWC in 1999 and had previously returned to the promotion in 2010 after his initial WWE exit. WWC is a wrestling promotion proudly owned by his father, legendary wrestler Carlos Colón, making this championship win a true homecoming. Carlito is expected to continue competing actively for WWC.