In a recent interview, Drew McIntyre opened up about why he took a lengthy break from WWE following his loss at Bad Blood. Surprisingly, it wasn’t just to recover from the severe cut he sustained during the match.
2024 has arguably been the pinnacle of McIntyre’s WWE career. While winning the Royal Rumble and being one of WWE’s top faces in 2020 was a highlight, that year was marred by the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, McIntyre transformed into the company’s top heel through an intense rivalry with returning legend CM Punk. This feud showcased McIntyre’s diverse talents and earned him a lucrative new contract.
After concluding his thrilling feud with Punk inside Hell in a Cell at October’s Bad Blood Premium Live Event, McIntyre disappeared from WWE television for two months, only to make a surprise return on WWE Raw last week.
Speculation abounded regarding the reason for his extended absence during such a high point in his career. McIntyre clarified the situation during an interview with Kansas TV station KWCH 12.
Personal Loss and Re-evaluation
“I got hit in the head at one point and needed 16 staples to close a wound at the top of my head,” McIntyre revealed (h/t Wrestle Purists). “I also suffered a family loss. So I went back to Scotland to deal with that and to re-evaluate my priorities. I realized that I’ve probably given too much to my profession and colleagues, and not enough to my family.”
McIntyre continued, “I realized I’ve been giving too much for the past 17 years. It’s time to start taking a little more.”
Balancing Career and Family
In the past, McIntyre has spoken about the sacrifices he made to become a wrestling superstar in the United States. This often meant missing out on time with his loved ones back in Scotland. Given the circumstances, it’s understandable that McIntyre took additional time to be with his family during a difficult period. It was a well-deserved break after an incredible six months.