Former Inner Circle member Mike Santana has officially parted ways with All Elite Wrestling (AEW). His absence from the company’s roster page last week and lack of backstage presence for months hinted at his departure.

In a candid interview, he explained the factors that led to his decision, offering insights into his vision for the future and his battles during this transitional period.

This article delves into revelations, exploring the rationale behind his departure, his aspirations, and how he navigated the challenges accompanying this significant career shift.

Mike Santana talked about the reason behind leaving AEW

Based on his recent interview, personal factors and a need for a break from the intense schedule and demands of the wrestling industry primarily drove Santana’s decision to leave (AEW).

Despite being part of the famous Inner Circle faction, he revealed that his departure was not sudden but rather a well-thought-out decision that predated his injury in June 2022.

He candidly admitted that he was dealing with many personal and professional challenges, leading to burnout, and he realized that he needed to step away from AEW to address these issues. 

His contract was set to expire in September 2022, and even before his injury, he had already decided not to re-sign with the company. The injury itself compounded an already difficult situation for Santana, adding to his challenges at the time. 

He described it as a “very dark time” for him, suggesting that he was grappling with personal struggles that necessitated taking a break from the rigors of professional wrestling.

While Santana was uncertain about AEW’s intentions to re-sign him, he acknowledged that a new deal might have been on the table. However, his priority was not actively pursuing a contract renewal but instead focusing on his well-being and addressing the issues he faced in his personal life.

Mike Santana dealt with a period of unhappiness in his life

Santana’s decision to leave AEW was deeply rooted in unhappiness and personal struggles that extended beyond the professional realm.

Santana described himself as miserable, with his partnership deteriorating and his professional life at AEW stagnating.

As someone who is goal-oriented and driven to reach the industry’s top, the lack of progress and growth took a toll on his overall well-being.

Sitting down for interviews like these is very rare for me but I hope people enjoy and get the overall message.

Fight for your dreams. Obstacles are there for you to overcome and make you stronger. If YOU WANT IT, you MAKE IT HAPPEN for yourself.

??? pic.twitter.com/CCrTJYKD3q

— Mike SANTANA?? (@Santana_Proud)

However, the most significant challenge Santana faced during this time was his ongoing struggle with addiction. He admitted that his addiction issues were becoming increasingly severe, to the point where he would disappear for days without coming home. 

In a heartbreaking moment, he revealed that his daughter’s Christmas wish that year was for her “daddy to stop,” Additionally, a letter from his grandmother further highlighted the pain he was causing those around him.

His decision to leave AEW was not solely driven by professional factors but rather a recognition that he needed to prioritize his well-being and address the personal struggles that were causing profound unhappiness.

How Mike Santana saw his future in wresting while struggling

Santana’s struggles extended far beyond just the professional realm of wrestling. When he got injured in June 2022, his mindset needed to be more focused on a potential return to the ring once he recovered. 

He revealed that he had been operating in “survival mode” for most of his life, constantly on guard and pushing through day by day, a coping mechanism likely rooted in the challenges he faced during his childhood. 

Mike Santana has been a part of All Elite Wrestling from the very beginning (Source: Wrestling Inc.)

He admitted to internalizing and suppressing a lot of trauma and difficult experiences from his upbringing, as his mother had instilled in him the idea that “whatever happens at home, stays at home.”

In this vulnerable state, Santana’s primary concern was not about his future in wrestling or a potential return to the ring after recovering from his injury. 

Instead, he was consumed by the need to step away from the demanding world of professional wrestling and focus on addressing his struggles, unhappiness, and the deep-rooted issues that had been weighing him down for years.

Mike Santana addressed his departure in a heartfelt post

Santana’s departure from AEW was addressed in a heartfelt social media post, where he reflected on his journey with the company and expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he had been given.

In his statement, he acknowledged the rollercoaster ride of ups and downs he experienced during his five-year tenure with AEW. Still, he emphasized that it taught him invaluable lessons about himself and the wrestling business. 

However, Santana also recognized that there comes a time in life when one must make difficult decisions and take risks to unlock their true potential. 

Thank you, EVERYONE. ?? pic.twitter.com/Wy8zUTBCnT

— Mike SANTANA?? (@Santana_Proud)

He firmly believes in the adage, “When one door closes, a bigger door opens,” he expressed excitement for what the future holds for him as he embarks on a new chapter.

In his heartfelt post, he extended his gratitude to various individuals and entities that have played a significant role in his journey. He thanked God and his late father for their guidance and his family for their unwavering support. 

Additionally, he acknowledged the fans who have backed him relentlessly, regardless of the circumstances.

Santana also paid tribute to his long-time tag team partner, Ortiz, who shared many memorable moments in AEW. He expressed his appreciation for AEW itself, acknowledging the knowledge and opportunities the company provided him.

Mike Santana’s career

Santana, also known by his ring names “Mike Draztik” and “The RICANstruction,” has had an extensive career in professional wrestling spanning over 16 years. 

His wrestling style is described as an “all-ro,der,.” He has worked under the guidance of renowned trainer Magic, honing his craft and developing a repertoire that has earned him nicknames like “The Nasty Assassin” and “The Real Deal.”

Early in his career, Santana made a name for himself on the independent circuit, competing in various promotions before joining forces with Ortiz to form a formidable tag team. 

Together, they have had runs in several notable wrestling organizations, including Ring of Honor, Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide, and IMPACT Wrestling, where they debuted in 2017.

Mike Santana with Ortiz (Source: Wrestle Talk)

Santana and Ortiz, known as Proud & Powerful, have enjoyed tremendous success as a tag team, capturing tag team championships in multiple promotions.

In 2019, Santana and Ortiz made their highly anticipated debut in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) at the All Out pay-per-view. 

Since then, they have been a mainstay in the AEW roster, engaging in high-profile feuds with Chris Jericho and his stable, The Jericho Appreciation Society.

Despite his successful tag team run with Ortiz, Santana’s recent announcement of pursuing a singles career has generated speculation and excitement about the potential dynamics and storylines within the AEW roster.