Corey Graves Names Seth Rollins and CM Punk as Dream Opponents for Potential In-Ring Return

Corey Graves was an active in-ring star in WWE NXT, appearing in several match-ups for the promotion. However, he was forced to retire in 2014 owing to concussions. Since then, many fans have wondered if Graves will ever return to the ring. Recently, Graves discussed the possibility of lacing up his boots once again.

In a recent interview with Sportskeeda WrestleBinge, Graves discussed the idea of making a potential return to the ring, but emphasized his newfound dedication to his commentary duties. Despite having been cleared to compete by doctors in 2020, Graves stated that his focus has shifted since taking on the lead announcer role for WWE Friday Night SmackDown.

“Honestly, I could give you five different answers for that, but I can honestly say my focus has really shifted,” he said. “I got cleared, it was almost two years ago now, and it was in the midst of a lot of different things were happening, professionally and personally, and I was sort of looking for something to scratch that itch. But since I’ve slid over into the now lead role on Friday Night SmackDown in the commentary booth, that’s actually provided me with a lot more motivation and a new skill to learn and to focus on. As much as this is the biggest sports entertainment company in the globe, it can be Groundhog Day from time to time, and you see the same faces and do the same things, and I honestly was on autopilot half the time, doing SmackDown or Raw, from a color perspective. So to have this new role, I’ve been able to put 100% of my focus and energy in that. With that said, again, of the opportunity ever presented itself where it made sense and where it could be part of a larger story, I’m beyond the point of, I don’t need that WrestleMania moment for my own age. I just am a willing participant and another character that can hopefully be thrown into the mix in some capacity as needed, but I think I’ve scratched the itch fairly well recently.”

However, Graves revealed that he’s open to the idea of a return to wrestling, if he can face-off against two particular opponents: Seth Rollins and CM Punk. Reflecting on his past encounters with Rollins during their time in FCW and NXT, Graves expressed a desire to reignite their in-ring rivalry. He further added that he’d be interested in facing Punk, highlighting the appeal of revisiting a matchup that hasn’t occurred in many years.

“I would love to step in the ring with Seth again. Seth was one of my favorite opponents in FCW and NXT when we were first coming up. I would love to step in the ring with Punk again. It’s been many, many years. As far as my personal favorite these days, I’m a big Gunther days. I’m in no hurry to step inside the ring with the Ring General.”

As speculation swirls around the possibility of Graves making a return to the squared circle, fans are left to ponder whether the beloved commentator will once again don his wrestling gear. While Graves remains focused on his commentary duties for now, his openness to the idea of a return leaves the door open for potential future matchups.

What are your thoughts on Corey Graves’ potential return to the ring and who you’d like to see him face in the squared circle! Let us know in the comments below!