The September 9 episode of WWE Raw ignited rumors of a potential in-ring return for Wade Barrett after an on-screen confrontation with Drew McIntyre. McIntyre, following his recent attack on CM Punk, addressed Barrett during a segment, prompting wrestling fans to wonder whether the former WWE Intercontinental Champion might be considering a return to the squared circle.
Barrett, who officially retired from in-ring competition in late 2015 after a series of injuries, was released from WWE in June 2016. He returned to the company in 2020, not as a competitor, but as part of the commentary team on NXT. Despite his current role behind the announce desk, the possibility of a comeback remains a topic of discussion within the wrestling community.
WWE Hall of Famer John “Bradshaw” Layfield (JBL) added fuel to the fire during a recent interview on Huge Pop. JBL expressed his belief that Barrett still has something to offer inside the ring if he’s willing to take the chance. “If Wade has that desire, I say go for it,” JBL stated. “Commentary will always be there for him, but the window for an in-ring career isn’t open forever. If it doesn’t work out, he can always come back to commentary.”
Barrett, a five-time WWE Intercontinental Champion, wrestled for WWE from 2006 to 2015. He was released the following year, before returning in 2020 and transitioning to his current role as a broadcaster. While there has been no official word from Barrett or WWE on a potential return, JBL’s comments suggest that the door is not entirely closed.
At the time of writing, Barrett has not indicated any plans to step back into the ring, leaving fans to speculate about what the future holds for the former leader of the Nexus.
Wade Barrett’s Best WWE Moments (Playlist)
