Ryback announces departure from WWE on Instagram

The Big Guy's run in World Wrestling Entertainment is officially over.

Former WWE superstar Ryback (real name: Ryan Reeves) announced Friday on Instagram that he'll no longer conduct business with the company, wishing WWE the best in its future endeavors - a line often used when talent is either released or fired.

That doesn't appear to be the case with the former Intercontinental Champion, though, as Ryback had been openly disgruntled about his lack of a consistent role on weekly programming, slowly moving down the card after debuting as an undefeated wrecking machine who eventually challenged for the world championship.

He published a lengthy Tumblr post in May concerning how superstars are paid in a pre-determined sport, questioning why those at the top of the card make more money when those at the bottom are needed to make them look good.

Contract negotiations between the two parties reportedly broke down, resulting in Ryback walking out on WWE on May 2 after being advertised to appear in a Battle Royal that night.

Ryback will now be taking independent bookings to continue competing in the squared circle. He will also be launching a web site, writing a motivational book, releasing a clothing line, and selling sports supplements.

His last bout under the WWE umbrella came during the "Payback" pre-show on May 1 in a losing effort against Kalisto for the United States Championship.