Former WWE Champion Big E has made a somber admission about the state of his in-ring career, stating that he feels his “career is kind of behind me.” The popular member of The New Day made the comments during an appearance on the What’s Your Story with Stephanie McMahon podcast. The conversation, which largely centered on mental health, saw Big E reflect on his journey and his current role in the company, a role that has been outside of the wrestling ring since he suffered a career-threatening neck injury in 2022.
While speaking with McMahon, Big E shared his surprise at being invited onto the show, given the high-profile guests who had appeared before him. “For all the people you’ve had on, I’m like, ‘why me?’ My career is kind of behind me. I’m someone who is appreciative, I think I had a really good career and I’m proud of it, but you’ve had John Cena, Livvy Dunne, some of the biggest names,” he said.
Stephanie explained that she wanted him on the show because of the person he is, the love he gives, and his inspiring journey. Big E’s in-ring career came to a halt on the March 11, 2022, episode of WWE SmackDown, when he landed on his head during a belly-to-belly suplex from Ridge Holland at ringside. The fall resulted in a fractured C1 and C6 vertebrae. While he thankfully avoided any ligament or spinal cord damage, the injury was severe enough to keep him out of the ring indefinitely.
Big E has often stated that he is able to live a normal, pain-free life, but a return to the physically demanding world of wrestling has remained uncertain. Since the injury, Big E transitioned into a role as a panelist on the pre-show and post-show for WWE’s premium live events, where his charisma and deep knowledge of the business have made him a natural fit. While fans continue to hold out hope for a miracle in-ring return, his recent comments suggest that the former champion is at peace with his career.
During his active years, he become a multi-time tag team champion, an Intercontinental Champion, a King of the Ring, and a WWE Champion.’
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article, please credit What’s Your Story? with Stephanie McMahon with an h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
