The legendary Tazz has been granted a requested release from his WWE contract, numerous wrestling news sources are reporting. The 41-year-old Smackdown color commentator reportedly cited a need to recharge his batteries as the reason for his departure.

Known as The Human Suplex Machine during his days in the original ECW, Tazz retired from in-ring action in 2002 due to injuries.  He has been calling matches for WWE since late 2000, and has been a respected ringside fixture in the company.

Tazz was spotted saying his goodbyes during Monday night’s taping, and his last show as Smackdown commentator is expected to air Friday.  Sources say he offered to work Wrestlemania, but it is unlikely he will be asked to participate.