Bray Wyatt was released by WWE on July 31st, 2022.
At the time of his exit Wyatt was still one of WWE’s most popular stars, although he hadn’t been seen on television in a number of months. In fact, his most recent match before leaving the company was a defeat to Randy Orton at WrestleMania 37.
When the star left the company there were numerous theories that were put forward as to why, but it became clear that he didn’t see eye-to-eye with Vince McMahon. It was reported that the pair clashed backstage and that McMahon simply “didn’t like” Wyatt who was known to be outspoken over poor creative.
Wyatt was also said to be highly critical of his storyline with Randy Orton which lacked direction and saw the finish to their match at WrestleMania changed right before the event.
Bray Wyatt Hints He’s Not Totally Happy With Vince McMahon’s Return
However, with McMahon out of the picture due to being “retired,” Bray Wyatt returned to WWE at Extreme Rules in October 2022. The star is known to be popular with Chief Content Officer Triple H and WWE put extensive work into hyping his return and presentation since. But uncertainty about what the future might hold has crept in once again.
On January 6th Vince McMahon returned to WWE after reinstating himself to the Board of Directors. Although McMahon is said to not be involved with creative, some fans are already fearing for their favourite stars who weren’t popular or released under his leadership.
Posting on Twitter one fan said that they were worried for Wyatt now McMahon was back. Seemingly in a sign of solidarity with those fears, Wyatt liked the tweet.
“Dear Bray Wyatt. I know that you’re not that man, anymore. But… Turns out I do have fear, Bray. I have a fear of losing you, again from the WWE. That’s my fear.”
@Windham6#BrayWyatt
Dear Bray Wyatt. I know that you’re not that man, anymore. But… Turns out I do have fear, Bray. I have a fear of losing you, again from the WWE. That’s my fear.— Goddess⭕️fDarkness84🖤 (@GODarkness84) January 11, 2023
Since Vince McMahon returned to WWE he has been elected as Chairman of the Board and Stephanie McMahon has left the company. She had been working as co-CEO alongside Nick Khan.
This was followed by reports that WWE had been sold to Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. Although such reports appear to have been premature.