Drew McIntyre explains why he is not ready to return to WWE yet

The Scotsman confirms that he will return, but remains focused on several film projects

Drew McIntyre
Photo Credit: WWE.com
Sebastián Martínez
Sebastián Martínez
Published 11/03/2026

Drew McIntyre has confirmed that he will return to WWE, although he believes the right time has not yet come. The former world champion, who has been away from the ring since WrestleMania 42, is currently focused on several film projects while continuing to prepare physically for his future return to competition.

During an interview with CNN-News18, the Scottish wrestler spoke about his new chapter in acting, his relationship with WWE and the reasons why he has not yet set a date for his return.

Drew McIntyre confirms he will return to WWE when the time is right

McIntyre explained that his involvement in film productions such as Hex, Highlander and Agent of Shadows does not mean that he has decided to walk away from professional wrestling.

In fact, he said that he is not actively pursuing opportunities in Hollywood, but rather that they have come about naturally.

I'm not chasing anything. I know some of our colleagues are. I think Drew McIntyre would say he didn't go to Hollywood, Hollywood came to Drew. And we're taking the opportunities as they come.

The Scotsman also thanked Nick Khan and Triple H for allowing him to explore new professional opportunities outside WWE.

I will return to WWE. WWE is my home, and I'm grateful to Nick Khan and Triple H for allowing me to go out and explore this world. Hopefully, it will be beneficial to both worlds. When the time is right, Hollywood Drew will be back. But it's not time yet.

With these comments, McIntyre has ruled out the idea that his move into acting represents a permanent retirement, although he made it clear that his return is not imminent.

Drew McIntyre shows his physical progress ahead of his return to the ring

Despite his absence from WWE programming, McIntyre continues to train intensely and share some of his progress on social media.

He recently posted a video showing himself performing speed drills, shoulder tackles and kicks, displaying greater agility during his training sessions.

The wrestler accompanied the footage with a brief message:

Total control.

In another training session, McIntyre surprised fans by climbing to the top rope to execute an aerial arm drag, a move rarely seen from a wrestler of his size.

During a previous interview with Chris Van Vliet, the Scotsman had already stated that his cardiovascular endurance and agility were at their best level in the past twelve years.

I've been working really hard. I'd say my cardio and agility are the best they've ever been, or at least the best they've been in the last twelve years. I feel really good physically. I'm bigger than ever and I'm moving better than before.

Drew McIntyre's WWE return still has no confirmed date

Drew McIntyre has not competed in a WWE match since WrestleMania 42, and the company has yet to announce when his return could take place.

His latest comments indicate that he remains on good terms with WWE officials and has the freedom to pursue his film projects while staying away from in-ring competition.

For now, the former world champion will continue balancing his physical preparation with his acting commitments. Although he has made it clear that he intends to return to the ring, McIntyre prefers to wait until he feels the time is right to begin a new chapter in WWE.