WWE has seen several former stars, including AJ Lee, Brock Lesnar, and Nikki Bella, return to the company in 2025 after years away from the company. This trend raises the possibility that other talents, previously thought to be retired, could make their way back in the weeks and months. Here are five supposedly retired WWE stars who could potentially make an in-ring return.
Corey Graves
Ahead of WWE Wrestlepalooza 2025, commentator Corey Graves was taken out of action for several weeks after receiving two F-5s from Brock Lesnar. Although Graves recently returned to the commentary desk on SmackDown, his brief physical involvement could hint at something more. Graves retired from in-ring competition a decade ago due to injury. Taking a significant move like the F-5 on WWE TV might suggest a possible path back to the ring down the road. A return to active competition, perhaps against Lesnar or another star, could generate interest given his long tenure as a prominent voice in the company.
Wade Barrett
Another current WWE announcer with a past life as an in-ring competitor is Wade Barrett. After retiring from wrestling in 2016, Barrett transitioned successfully into commentary. For several years, fans have discussed the possibility of Barrett stepping back into the squared circle. Potential matchups, whether against former allies like Drew McIntyre or top heels such as GUNTHER, could create memorable moments for the audience.
Big E
Big E has been out of action since suffering a serious, career-threatening neck injury in March 2022. Despite not competing for over three years, the former WWE Champion has remained involved with the company, often appearing as a panelist on pre-shows. Fans have frequently expressed their desire to see Big E return to the ring.
Considering the circumstances surrounding The New Day’s split from him in storyline, a comeback confronting Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods could be a powerful moment, potentially leading to an announcement of his in-ring return.
Mickie James
Mickie James reappeared on WWE television as a legend and coach on the A&E reality series LFG. Her presence on the show led many fans to speculate about a potential in-ring return. As a six-time WWE Women’s Champion, James possesses significant name recognition and star power that could immediately bolster the women’s division on either Raw or SmackDown.
A return could set up several intriguing dream matches against current top stars like Bayley, IYO SKY, and Rhea Ripley.
Stone Cold Steve Austin
“Stone Cold” Steve Austin made a stunning return to the ring at WrestleMania 38 in 2022, defeating Kevin Owens in his first match since 2003. As one of the biggest stars in wrestling history, Austin is frequently mentioned by fans hoping for another comeback.
With WrestleMania 42 scheduled for Las Vegas in April 2026, Austin’s residence in nearby Nevada makes his involvement geographically feasible. A return for “The Texas Rattlesnake” could lead to compelling interactions and storylines with current top talents like Roman Reigns or CM Punk.
