Former professional wrestler and current WWE RAW commentator Corey Graves recently discussed the prospects of an in-ring return. Even though he retired more than 10 years ago due to concussion issues, he hasn’t given up on the idea of getting back into action one more time.
Graves joined WWE in 2011 after building a reputation on the independent scene. In NXT, he even won the NXT Tag Team Championship with Adrian Neville. He was also known for rivalries with stars like Seth Rollins, Bray Wyatt, and Sami Zayn.
However, repeated concussions forced him to retire in 2014. But instead of leaving WWE, he found success as a commentator.
There have been talks about a possible return for a while now, especially after Graves got physically involved in segments with Brock Lesnar. However, it might not be as simple as it looks.
Corey Graves says he is not actively pursuing an in-ring return
Graves shared in an interview with TV Insider that he was actually medically cleared to compete a few years ago. But he made it clear that he is not planning a return anytime soon.
“I got medically cleared a couple of years ago. I started to get back in shape. A lot of things changed within the company as far as everything. So, I don’t foresee that happening in the foreseeable future if at all,” Graves said.
Graves admitted he enjoys his current role more, joking that it’s much easier wearing a suit on TV than training like a full-time wrestler.
“One major reason being is I don’t feel like staying in ring shape because it’s a lot of work. I have the luxury of wearing a suit on TV. I like not watching what I eat,” Graves added.
Even so, he didn’t fully shut the door. He said “never say never,” and mentioned that he would at least think about it if the right opportunity came up.
“Never say never. I think if the right opportunity presented itself, whether that be in WWE or AAA, I would probably jump at the chance. At the same time, it’s not something I’m actively pursuing at the moment,” Graves said.
As of 2026, Graves is still active as a commentator and also works outside WWE as a communications professor.
Read More: Corey Graves Says Demotion To WWE NXT Definitely Put A Chip On His Shoulder
