Backstage News on Triple H Possibly Bringing Back Another Former NXT Star

[Dale]

The former Bronson Reed could be on his way back to WWE in the near future.

A new report from Andrew Zarian on the “We’re Live, Pal” podcast notes that WWE officials have discussed a possible return to the company for Jonah. There’s no word yet on if he would return to WWE NXT, or go right to the main roster.

It was noted that WWE officials are very interested in bringing Jonah back because of his talent, and because of his recent performance in the NJPW G1 Climax tournament.

There’s no word yet on if Jonah would be legally able to return to WWE, or if a deal has been offered, but WWE Executive Vice President of Talent Relations & Head of Creative Triple H was very high up on Jonah at one point. Jonah has upcoming NJPW bookings for this fall, so it’s likely that an immediate return is not possible. It was previously reported that his NJPW deal is non-exclusive, but that was back in December and it remains to be seen if his contract status has changed.

Jonah recently had a strong performance in the G1, finishing second in Block A, only trailing Kazuchika Okada, the tournament winner. Jonah landed a big upset over Okada during the tournament, which led to NJPW announcing their “Special Singles Match” for the Declaration of Power event on Monday, October 10 from Sumo Hall in Tokyo, Japan. He is also booked for the Burning Spirit tour, which runs through September 25.

Jonah originally signed with WWE in January 2019, and went on to become a one-time NXT North American Champion, holding the title for 42 days. He was released on August 6, 2021, along with other budget cuts. Since leaving WWE, Jonah has worked for NJPW, Impact Wrestling, PWG, HOG, Warrior Wrestling, The Crash, GCW and PROGRESS.​

Wasn't a big fan of him in NXT tbh, thought he was OK and would have been better on the main roster under Vince but we saw how that went. Won't be sad if this doesn't come off.

 

[Chris]

I thought NJPW would try and lock him down for sure but otherwise this doesn't surprise me with the way his "main roster run" went, feels like one Trips would try and make right

 

[Deezy]

Man was on Jim Jefferies podcast not that long ago.

HHH wants that mainstream attention.

 

[Swerve]

This is not a surprise.

 

[Daddy Dom]

Hmm I'm indifferent on it but like I don't see him as a major star but good hand

 

[Cwalker]

Like Chris said I thought he was under lock in New Japan.

They were high on him during this first run so Hunter bringing him back makes perfect sense

 

[Y2Jayne]

I don't remember him being anything special to be honest. His departure didn't change anything on NXT unlike Gargano's or Lumis'.

 

[Necro]

He's pretty decent, wouldn't mind a return.

 

[Dale]

Fightful Select: In addition, we've confirmed Andrew Zarian's report that there is interest on WWE's side in bringing back Bronson Reed. Reed was heavily pushed during the end of the Triple H NXT era. He had several looks on the WWE main roster before being released. We haven't learned if anything beyond general interest has been put forth.​

 

[Deezy]

Be interesting to see if the guy returning has more than 15% of the audience knowing who he was/is.

 

[Deezy]

 

[Chris]

He's booked in Japan at least through September, could be free after his Okada rematch tho, don't know if he ever signed an actual contract

 

[Dale]

While speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer noted that WWE wants JONAH (FKA Bronson Reed) back in the company, and he could be on his way back.

"When (Okada vs JONAH) was over, they did a handshake, and I don’t know… they didn’t talk ‘finale’ and they didn’t say he was leaving, but kind of the way that handshake… WWE’s gone after JONAH (Bronson Reed) and they want him. And even though JONAH was getting a great push here, this was actually the first pinfall loss he’s taken in New Japan. The handshake was kind of weird, it was almost like you think maybe he’s going back (to WWE). But I don’t know if that’s the case or not.”​

 

[Chris]

I wouldn't be surprised but I don't think Dave watches NJPW bc after the match and the handshake he mentions... JONAH clearly said "we're 1-1 now" and implied a 3rd match or that was at least how I interpreted it

 

[Canadian Dragon]

Genuinely think Jonah could be a megastar in NJPW and should not rush back yet.