Drew McIntyre’s long-awaited return to WWE television has taken a unique turn, now becoming more of a “creative issue” rather than a concern related to his injury.

Since WrestleMania 39, McIntyre has been absent from WWE programming due to a health issue/injury. Despite wrestling through the injury at WrestleMania in a Triple Threat match, where Gunther emerged victorious, McIntyre has yet to make his comeback.

According to the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter by Dave Meltzer, McIntyre’s return is now primarily influenced by creative factors rather than his physical condition. The issue lies in aligning WWE’s vision with McIntyre’s aspirations and reaching a mutual agreement on when and how his return should occur.

Meltzer explained, “At this point, McIntyre’s return is basically more a creative issue regarding what they want, what he wants, and when they agree to it. Regarding the potential of his leaving, the time he has been out of action can be used to freeze and extend his contract if WWE so desires. WWE in the past has done that with numerous wrestlers who had expressed wanting to leave. It should be noted that McIntyre, to the best of our knowledge, has not asked to leave, but they have not agreed to a new deal. But there is an obvious spot for him as a heel challenging Rollins.”

In April, it was confirmed that McIntyre’s WWE contract is in its final year, and negotiations for a new deal are far from reaching a resolution.

The uncertainty surrounding McIntyre’s return and contract situation adds an intriguing layer to his future in WWE, leaving fans curious about how the creative impasse will be resolved and whether a new deal will be struck.