Erick Redbeard, previously known as Erick Rowan, sparked discussions among fans when it was revealed that he had withdrawn from various independent bookings, including one for East Coast Pro Wrestling (ECPW). The reason cited was “new contractual obligations,” leading to speculation that he might be returning to WWE.
Later reports indicated that Rowan had been in Pittsburgh recently, a common city where WWE sends talent for medical evaluations before signing them.
This has caused fans to speculate Rowan is returning to WWE to be aligned with Bo Dallas when he portrays Uncle Howdy. Dave Meltzer reported the following in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter:
“Joseph Ruud, 42, who has been wrestling on indies as Erick Redbeard, but best known as Erick Rowan, pulled out of all his upcoming dates citing signing a new contract that would prevent appearing. The natural speculation would be WWE, with the idea of a connection with the returning Bo Dallas. WWE did not confirm that as they wouldn’t officially but within the company there was that expectation.”
Former WWE wrestler Erick Redbeard, formerly known as Erick Rowan, has sparked speculation among fans after withdrawing from various independent bookings. One of the events he pulled out of was for East Coast Pro Wrestling (ECPW), citing “new contractual obligations” as the reason for his withdrawal. This has led many to believe that Redbeard may be returning to WWE.
Adding fuel to the speculation, reports have surfaced indicating that Rowan was recently in Pittsburgh, a city where WWE often sends talent for medical evaluations before signing them. This has further fueled rumors of his potential return to the company.
Fans have been particularly intrigued by the possibility of Rowan aligning with Bo Dallas, who is rumored to be portraying a character named Uncle Howdy upon his return to WWE. Wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer reported in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that there is an expectation within the company for a connection between Rowan and Dallas.
Joseph Ruud, who is 42 years old, has been wrestling on the independent circuit under the name Erick Redbeard since leaving WWE. However, his previous stint in WWE as Erick Rowan is what gained him recognition and a dedicated fan base. With his withdrawal from independent bookings and the rumors surrounding his recent activities, it seems likely that Redbeard is indeed on the verge of making a return to WWE.
While WWE has not officially confirmed Redbeard’s return, the speculation within the company itself adds weight to the rumors. Fans eagerly await any official announcement or confirmation regarding his potential reunion with WWE and a possible alliance with Bo Dallas.
Redbeard’s return to WWE would undoubtedly excite fans who have missed seeing him in action. His unique character and physical presence made him a standout performer during his previous tenure with the company. If the rumors are true, it will be interesting to see how WWE incorporates him into their current storylines and what role he will play alongside Bo Dallas as Uncle Howdy.
As with any speculation, it’s important to take these rumors with a grain of salt until an official announcement is made. However, the excitement and anticipation among fans for Redbeard’s potential return to WWE is undeniable.