A WWE personality has recently discussed the possibility of returning to the wrestling ring, expressing a willingness to engage in a one-off appearance rather than committing to a full-time comeback.
Following numerous concussions, WWE announcer Corey Graves formally retired as an in-ring competitor in 2014, transitioning to a full-time role as an announcer for NXT and subsequently Raw and SmackDown.
In 2021, Graves received clearance for a potential in-ring comeback and even secured the 24/7 Championship. However, an official return to active competition has yet to materialize, and it appears unlikely to be a full-time endeavor.
In an interview with Steelers Takeaways, Graves conveyed his openness to making an in-ring return in a one-off capacity, clarifying that he is not considering a permanent return as a wrestler.
He shared:
“The transition, in a peculiar way, rescued me from what might have been. Instead of mourning the loss of my dream as an in-ring performer, it provided me with a new focus while remaining in the business. I discovered a new mountain to climb, and in hindsight, it genuinely helped me cope with that loss.
“I now have a clean bill of health, thankfully. I received medical clearance to perform in the ring again a couple of years ago. I entertained the idea and am patiently awaiting a potential opportunity if it presents itself. It would be more of a one-time occurrence, similar to what McAfee has done—not a return as a full-time in-ring performer.”
Presently, Graves serves as the color commentator on the SmackDown brand alongside Michael Cole and Kevin Patrick.
