Former WWE Intercontinental Champion Ryback has issued a detailed and heartfelt public statement in response to recent comments made by Kevin Owens and Cody Rhodes, which he believes were directed at him. In a lengthy social media post, Ryback addressed what he felt was a “low blow” by providing clarity on his post-WWE career, his devastating injuries, and the personal reasons for his extended absence from the ring.
The situation arose after a clip circulated from Cody Rhodes’ podcast, So What Do You Wanna Talk About?, where Owens and Rhodes were discussing a wrestler, whose name was censored, who seemingly developed a reputation on the independent circuit after leaving WWE. Ryback, who has been a frequent topic of wrestling discourse since his departure from the company in 2016, felt the comments were a clear reference to him.
In response, Ryback took to social media to tell his side of the story, revealing the severe health issues he faced and the personal sacrifices he made. He posted the following statement in its entirety:
> I was made aware & saw the clip of @FightOwensFight & @CodyRhodes, two guys I always liked & got along with. It’s clear they were referencing me, even with the name censored.
> For context: I was booked solid for 3 years straight after WWE. My rate was set by my then-manager Pat Buck (a promoter himself), and every promoter I worked with made money and got my full effort—meet & greets, matches, fan time, all of it.
> What’s often left out: I walked away from a multi-million dollar WWE contract. I wasn’t fired. I needed a 5-disc fusion and full right shoulder replacement at 34. I was told not to wrestle again. I had nerve damage that risked paralysis if I continued.
> I had to stop taking bookings entirely. Why? Because my doctors told me for the stem cells to work properly, I needed to stop wrestling. I also made the choice to stay home and care for my dog Sophie, who developed severe disc disease, had multiple ruptures and surgeries, and was paralyzed twice. I refused to put her down just to keep traveling and making more money—I already had what I needed.
> Sophie turns 10 this November. And every second with her was worth it.
> I poured everything into rebuilding my health and my brand with Feed Me More Nutrition. I’ve had 20 stem cell procedures and was blessed to regrow all 5 discs in my back. I’m now finally close to being able to return.
> So yes, I do feel the comment was a low blow—especially coming from two guys I respected and spoke well of. But I’m not bitter. I’ve made peace with @WWE and let go of the past.
> This isn’t a storyline. It’s real life. Survival. Growth. Perspective.
> I wish Kevin a strong recovery, and I send both him and Cody nothing but love, health & continued success. 🙏
Ryback’s statement sheds new light on the years following his WWE exit, clarifying that his withdrawal from the independent scene was not due to a lack of professionalism, but a combination of severe medical advice and a personal choice to prioritize his health and his family, including his dog. He concludes by taking the high road, wishing both Owens and Rhodes well.
The former WWE star continues to operate his “Feed Me More Nutrition” supplement brand and has been actively documenting his difficult but successful recovery process on social media. He has frequently teased a potential return to the ring, a goal he noted in his statement that he is now “finally close” to achieving.
