CHARLOTTE, N.C. — "I'm proud to leave here the winningest Panthers head coach." Ron Rivera spoke out Wednesday following the surprise announcement that he had been fired Tuesday afternoon.

Watch the full news conference below:

"I'm proud that I took over a 2-14 team, and won back-to-back-to-back NFC South Division titles," Rivera said in his opening remarks at Wednesday morning's news conference. "I'm proud to have been part of the 2015 NFC championship team that represented the NFC in Super Bowl 50."

On Tuesday, David Tepper announced the Panthers were parting ways with Rivera following a four game losing streak, and a devastating loss on Sunday to the then 2-9 Washington Redskins. 

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The former Panthers head coach thanked the team, orginization, and fans for supporting him during his time in Charlotte. 

Rivera said during the news conference that he was "surprised" by Tepper's call on Tuesday, and he thought, if it happened, it would happen at the end of the season. Rivera went on to say however, that he understood the decision.

Following a Panthers loss to the Falcons earlier in the season, Tepper made it clear while addressing the media that he would not accept long-term mediocrity. Still, many were shocked at Tuesday's announcement.

Many wondered whether Rivera would get a pass on the season due to the loss of the Panthers star quarterback, Cam Newton. Newton and Rivera both joined the organization in 2011.

Players, including Newton, have been posting messages of support and thanks on social media. 

Rivera says he looks forward to the next chapter, and urges everyone to look at the positives rather than dwelling on the negatives. 

"At the end of the day, when you walk out that door — which I will do soon — it's all about character."

Newton's future with the team also remains in question. Panthers owner David Tepper says secondary coach Perry Fewell will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the season.