Drew McIntyre's WWE Return Is Reportedly A Creative Issue Between Both Sides

Many wrestling fans have been wondering about the status of former WWE Champion Drew McIntyre, who disappeared from programming after his loss at WrestleMania 39. While McIntyre's absence originally stemmed from a "health issue," it appears that there's also been some holdups in the creative department as well. According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the path to McIntyre's WWE return has become more of a "creative issue" now, as both sides weigh their options. Fightful Select previously reported that "The Scottish Warrior" prefers to be hands-on in the creative process surrounding his character, but lately, there has been a lack of communication between the two parties. Recent pitches also called for McIntyre to turn heel, but reports suggest he may push back on that. In the past, McIntyre has been hesitant to make big character changes unless they make sense.

As for McIntyre's contract, WON's Dave Meltzer previously stated his belief that there is a good chance that McIntyre will exit WWE upon the expiration of his deal in early 2024. As of now, McIntyre has not formally indicated that he intends to leave, but at the same time, both sides have yet to ink a new agreement. It is possible for WWE to extend his contract to reflect the time he was out of action, but WWE has not yet ventured down that route.

Whenever McIntyre does return, he will move over to the "WWE Raw" brand after being selected to join their roster during the 2023 WWE Draft. "Raw," of course, is also the official home to the revived World Heavyweight Championship, which may or may not pique McIntyre's interest right away.