The hottest rumor in professional wrestling right now has Booker T leaving TNA and returning to WWE.
Booker T Returns to WWE
When Booker T walked away from WWE in October of 2007, many people were under the belief that he would never return.
The former World Heavyweight Champion asked for his release amidst drug allegations and backstage behavior issues. Since WWE was so quick to approve his request to be released, it was believed that both sides wanted nothing to do with the other.
When Booker T showed up in the rival promotion (TNA), it appeared as if he completely burnt the bridge with Vince McMahon and company.
However, it's always been said that "you never say ever in the world of professional wrestling".
Reports have surfaced that Booker T has been telling others backstage in TNA that he intends to leave when his contract expires later on this year. He has also informed people that he has options in WWE.
Before the year ends, we could see Booker T return to WWE.
Another Bad Exit
Booker T's reputation received quite a black eye during his final days in WWE. He was labeled as a malcontent that had a drug problem.
The label followed him to TNA, but the 44 year old Houston native was able to repair his reputation a bit by being really great in the TNA locker room. He even tried elevating guys like Robert Roode.
Booker T also didn't try to force management into pushing him into the world title scene. During his entire tenure in TNA, he has never held the world heavyweight title.
Wrestling fans are quick to forget certain things. His time served in TNA helped to rehabilitate his reputation a bit.
Over the last few days, though, his reputation has come under scrutiny again.
At the TNA iMPACT! tapings this week, Booker T caused quite a scene when he refused to put over Matt Morgan, who is currently in the midst of a push that will eventually see him become a permanent member of the main event scene.
Some believe that Booker T is doing this because he knows that he's going to be leaving the company soon.
Not So Fast
While rumors are running rampant about Booker T making his return to WWE, it is not anything that is set in stone just yet.
WWE desperately needs fresh faces in their main event scene, but Booker T might not necessarily be the guy that they want in that role.
The recently released Umaga has been rumored to be a candidate to return to WWE as well. The company might not be willing to spend money on both guys.
WWE might also opt to promote from within. Guys like Dolph Ziggler, Jack Swagger, John Morrison and the Miz are obviously being groomed for a spot higher up on the card.
Closing Thoughts
After years of watching the wrestling business, I wouldn't be shocked either way. I wouldn't be shocked if Booker T returned to WWE. I wouldn't be shocked if he just retired. Nor would I be shocked if he ended up staying in TNA. |
