Big E’s Royal Rumble Return Ruled Out as Doctors Haven’t Cleared Him

Fans hoping to see Big E make a shocking return at the WWE Royal Rumble might want to pump the brakes.

According to Fightful Select, there is no indication that Big E has been cleared for in-ring competition, shutting down speculation that he could be a surprise entrant in the 30-man match.

Big E has been sidelined since March 2022 after suffering a broken neck in three places, including fractures to his C1 vertebra, during a botched suplex on SmackDown. Despite the severity of the injury, he’s repeatedly stated that he feels great and hasn’t dealt with any lingering issues. However, doctors have yet to give him the green light to wrestle again.

“I broke my neck two and a half years ago, in three places, including my C1 in two places. I still haven’t been cleared,” Big E recently told The Mike Broomhead Show. “Thankfully, I feel great and don’t have any issues, nothing like that. Didn’t need surgery. I was in a hard collar for three months. There are very real risks.”

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Since his injury, Big E has embraced new roles in WWE, appearing on kickoff panels, hosting events, and representing the company at major sports functions. But his unexpected split from The New Day earlier this month on Raw threw a wrench into things, leaving fans wondering if a return was imminent. Now, with Fightful’s report ruling out a Rumble appearance, it seems like Big E’s next move remains a mystery.

Big E’s future in WWE remains a question mark, and with no clearance for an in-ring return, fans might have to wait even longer to see what’s next. Whether he eventually steps back between the ropes or takes his career in a new direction, one thing is clear—his presence is missed.

Should WWE hold off on his return, or is it time to shake things up? Let us know what you think!