During Vince McMahon’s leadership, few wrestlers truly left WWE permanently. Even those who retired often returned for matches if financially motivated. A notable star once publicly vowed never to return. But with Triple H now in charge, the situation is different. Although some issues have arisen under his tenure, WWE has rarely rehired former talents. CM Punk stands out as an exception, with his conflict more creative than personal. However, wrestlers who openly criticized Triple H or caused backstage problems appear unlikely to return.
For example, Alberto del Rio, well-known from his WWE days (2008-2014) where he won multiple championships, remains active in AAA and has no plans to come back. In 2017, he insulted Triple H and accused him of manipulating others against him. Despite apologies, relations seem unrepaired. Additionally, serious allegations against Del Rio make a WWE comeback improbable.
Ryback, who wrestled in WWE from 2004 to 2016 and held the Intercontinental Championship once, has voiced disappointment with Triple H. While he’s open to returning if both Vince McMahon and Triple H are gone, with Triple H staying put, this seems unlikely.
MVP, now part of AEW’s Hurt Business, had a complicated relationship with Triple H, claiming he was shut out of reunions and even made serious, though later partially retracted, accusations of racism. Fans and insiders alike have noted the strained dynamic.
Matt Riddle, popular during his WWE stint from 2018 to 2023, had backstage issues and ran into trouble off-screen, including a notable incident at JFK airport. Released amid WWE’s corporate changes, he has expressed accountability and a desire to return, though his checkered history may delay any quick comeback.
Fan Take: This shift from Vince McMahon to Triple H signals a tougher stance on wrestling veterans who cause conflicts, marking a new era in WWE’s talent relations. For fans, it illustrates how backstage politics increasingly shape the product and who gets to perform, which could influence the sport’s culture and roster stability moving forward.
