Former WWE performer Ryback has addressed comments made during a recent episode of Cody Rhodes’s podcast, stating he is clearly the individual who was referenced in a conversation with Kevin Owens.
In a public statement, Ryback responded to what he perceived as a “low blow” from two individuals he considered colleagues he got along with.
“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,” Ryback stated.
The discussion on the podcast centered on wrestlers who, after leaving WWE, sometimes misjudge their value on the independent circuit. Ryback offered context for his own post-WWE career, noting his booking fee was set by his manager at the time and that he was consistently booked for three years straight before having to stop.
He explained that his departure from WWE was voluntary, as he walked away from a multi-million dollar contract at age 34 to deal with significant health issues that required a five-disc fusion and a full right shoulder replacement.
“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,” he explained, also citing the need to care for his dog, Sophie, who was dealing with severe health problems.
Ryback Addresses “Low Blow” Comment
The original conversation between Rhodes and Owens involved a story about a former WWE talent who charged a high rate for appearances, with the name being bleeped out.
Ryback detailed his extensive recovery process, which involved 20 stem cell procedures, and noted he is now close to being able to return to the ring. While he felt the comments were unfair, he expressed that he holds no ill will and has moved on from his past issues with WWE.
“This isn’t a storyline. It’s real life. Survival. Growth. Perspective,” Ryback added. “I wish Kevin a strong recovery, and I send both him and Cody nothing but love, health & continued success.”