Corey Graves Makes a WWE One-Off Ring Comeback

A WWE personality has explored the possibility of making a return to the wrestling ring, expressing a willingness to engage in a one-time appearance rather than a permanent comeback.

Corey Graves, once an in-ring competitor who officially retired in 2014 due to numerous concussions, made a full-time transition to become a WWE announcer for NXT, Raw, and SmackDown.

Although Graves received clearance for a potential in-ring comeback in 2021, marked by winning the 24/7 Championship, he has not formally returned to active wrestling. It appears unlikely that he will make a full-time return.

During an interview with Steelers Takeaways, Graves shared that he is open to the idea of a one-off return to the ring but is not considering a permanent role as a wrestler.

He explained:

“The transition, in a strange way, saved 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 staying in the business. I discovered a new challenge, and in hindsight, it truly helped me cope with that loss.

“I now have a clean bill of health, thankfully. I was actually medically cleared to perform in the ring again a couple of years ago. I toyed with the idea and am awaiting a potential opportunity if it arises. It would be more of a one-time thing, 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.