Wrestling fans may soon witness the in-ring return of Wade Barrett, as reports suggest he could be stepping out of retirement for a program with Drew McIntyre. According to WrestleVotes, this return would be part of a short-term storyline rather than a full-time comeback.
Barrett’s Potential WWE Return
Wade Barrett, who last competed in 2016, is rumored to face McIntyre in what could be a thrilling storyline. Barrett’s last WWE appearance in the ring was on the April 4, 2016, episode of Raw as part of the League of Nations, marking the end of his wrestling career.
The former WWE star has since found success as a commentator, rejoining the company in 2020. Barrett’s recent interactions with McIntyre during Drew’s feud with CM Punk have set the stage for a potential rivalry.
A Storied Rivalry Revisited
Barrett and McIntyre’s history dates back to their early days in WWE’s developmental systems, OVW and FCW. The two formed the tag team The Empire and held the FCW Florida Tag Team Championships before engaging in an intense rivalry. Their last singles encounter took place in 2013 at a house show in Cardiff, Wales.
Creative Direction and Speculations
With McIntyre off TV since his Hell in a Cell loss to CM Punk at Bad Blood 2024, WWE has an opportunity to build anticipation for his return by reigniting this long-standing feud. Barrett’s charisma as a commentator and his established connection with McIntyre could make this rivalry a must-watch.
While nothing has been officially confirmed, Wade Barrett vs. Drew McIntyre feud would undoubtedly bring a mix of nostalgia and excitement to WWE fans. Stay tuned for more updates on Barrett’s potential return to the squared circle.