Robert Roode Says He Is Cleared For In-Ring Return, Is Happy Being A Producer In WWE

Robert Roode comments on his current status.

Roode has not wrestled since June 25, 2022 when he lost to Omos at a WWE live event in Texas. His last televised match took place on the SmackDowm before WrestleMania when he competed in the Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal.

In May 2023, Roode revealed that he underwent C4-C5 cervical fusion.

Speaking to Chris Van Vliet on Insight, Roode was asked about a potential in-ring return.

“I just got green-lighted. The fusion has completely fused. As far as looking at it from a medical point of view, it’s safe to get back in the ring. At almost 48 years old, given the opportunity that Ive been given now, working as a producer, which was my goal coming to WWE almost eight years ago, I’m quite happy doing this. I feel like I’ve had a good run, and I’m happy doing what I do now,” he said. “Could I do this full-time? There is no way I could.”

Roode said that the wear and tear caught up to him over the years and that he should have had multiple fusions the first time around instead of waiting. He underwent C5-C6 fusion in December 2022.

“The level six and seven is still not great. I’m feeling better. Mentally, I don’t think I could take the risk going back and working a full time schedule. I feel like I look differently, too. I always prided myself on how I looked on television. I love being in the gym and working out. When you physically don’t look the same, it’s a mental thing as well for me,” he said.

Asked about the possibility of having one last match, Roode replied, “I think everyone would like to have one last match, but when the wheels fall off, the wheels fall off. That’s the nature of the beast in this sport and this industry.”

Roode took on the role as a producer during SummerSlam 2023 weekend.

Fans can see the producer lists for WWE Raw and WWE SmackDown by subscribing to Fightful Select.