Eric Young may already know where he is headed next, and it sounds like WWE has a very specific lane in mind for him.
While speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer said Eric Young is expected to return in a role similar to Shawn Spears. That means NXT, some in-ring work, and a lot of veteran guidance behind the scenes. Meltzer said September has been mentioned, though he warned that timing might not be exact.
“So he’s basically going to be in the same role Shawn Spears has — an NXT player-coach. That’s literally what I was told. I heard September, but that could be wrong but it was from people in WWE. But yeah, an NXT player-coach is the role. That’s the current plan for him.”
That is a pretty natural fit. Young has the experience, the WWE history, and enough credibility to help younger talent without needing to be pushed like a brand-new signing. He can work matches when needed, but his bigger value may be helping steady the NXT locker room.
This comes right after Young’s TNA exit. The company announced on July 1 that he was released effective immediately, while giving him credit for his long run as a two-time TNA World Champion.
“TNA Wrestling has come to the terms on the release of Eric Young effective immediately. EY has had a legendary TNA career, including twice as TNA World Champion. We wish him the best in his future endeavors.”
We had already reported WWE was expected to have interest in bringing Young back, but this update makes the plan sound a lot clearer. If everything lines up, Young may not be returning for one nostalgia pop. He could be coming back as a veteran hand in NXT with a job that actually matters.
What do you think about Eric Young possibly returning to WWE as an NXT player-coach? Let us know in the comments below.
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