Jay White is not expected back anytime soon.
The former Bullet Club leader made a surprise appearance at Wrestle Kingdom 20 on January 4. He was there to honor Hiroshi Tanahashi, who competed in his retirement match at the PPV. The appearance got people talking about a potential in-ring return for the AEW star.
A new report from Fightful Select, however, suggests that it isn't the case. According to the site, Jay White is not cleared for an in-ring return yet. The AEW officials also don't seem to expect him back imminently, as the Switchblade is not factored into any creative plans at the moment.
The former IWGP Heavyweight Champion has not wrestled since March last year. He sustained a hand injury in his bout with Kevin Knight while competing against him on Collision.
Upon being sidelined due to the injury, Jay White also opted to get shoulder surgery for issues that had been bothering him for a while. Tony Khan had confirmed afterward that he will be out of action for a long time, and we'll have to see when the 33-year-old finally makes his return to the ring.