Former Port Vale goalkeeper Stuart Tomlinson has been released from his WWE contract, he confirmed on his Twitter account.
The Cheshire-born star signed a contract with WWE in December 2013 and wrestled for the company's NXT brand under the ring name Hugo Knox.
Tomlinson appeared once on WWE television, teaming with Tucker Knight to face former NXT Tag Team Champions Simon Gotch and Aiden English.
"I'd like to confirm that through mutual agreement I have parted company with WWE," wrote Tomlinson, who also played football for Burton Albion, Crewe Alexandra, Barrow and Stafford Rangers.
"I would sincerely like to thank all those (who) helped me through my times with the company, including Coaches, professional peers, friends, and supportive fans alike.
"I have nothing but respect for the industry and business which people work tirelessly to succeed in - it's been an extraordinary learning curve and has left me a better person for the experience."
Tomlinson, who progressed through Crewe's academy, retired from football in July 2013 after sustaining a tear to his anterior cruciate ligament.
The 31-year-old was promoted to the Championship with Crewe during the 2002-2003 season, while he also won the FA Trophy in 2010 with Barrow.