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Censored Ex-WWE Star Fires Back At Cody Rhodes & Kevin Owens

By Lyle Kilbane • Published Jun 26, 2025 09:30 EDT
Cody Rhodes WWE

A former WWE star has revealed themselves as the name censored during a conversation between Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens.

Kevin Owens had plenty to talk about with Cody Rhodes as he appeared on his podcast, where the two men covered a range of subjects. Kevin Owens explained why he thinks Bron Breakker should be arrested and poked fun at the “Indy God” Matt Cardona for always talking about wanting to return to WWE.

During their conversation, Owens and Rhodes discussed what happens when people leave WWE, and Owens mentioned a name that he thinks overestimated their worth on the independent scene, implying that it cost them bookings. The name was censored by WWE, but fans were quick to notice that Owens was talking about former WWE Intercontinental Champion Ryback.

Ryback Has Left WWE Issues In The Past

Now taking to social media, Ryback has had his say on the conversation and explained what his experience was really like after leaving WWE and why he walked away from the business:

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.

For context: I was booked solid for 3 years straight after WWE. My rate was set by my then-manager Pat Buck (a promoter himself), and every promoter I worked with made money and got my full effort—meet & greets, matches, fan time, all of it.

What’s often left out: I walked away from a multi-million dollar WWE contract. I wasn’t fired. I needed a 5-disc fusion and full right shoulder replacement at 34. I was told not to wrestle again. I had nerve damage that risked paralysis if I continued.

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. I also made the choice to stay home and care for my dog Sophie, who developed severe disc disease, had multiple ruptures and surgeries, and was paralyzed twice. I refused to put her down just to keep traveling and making more money—I already had what I needed.

Sophie turns 10 this November. And every second with her was worth it.

I poured everything into rebuilding my health and my brand with Feed Me More Nutrition. I’ve had 20 stem cell procedures and was blessed to regrow all 5 discs in my back. I’m now finally close to being able to return.

So yes, I do feel the comment was a low blow—especially coming from two guys I respected and spoke well of. But I’m not bitter. I’ve made peace with @WWE and let go of the past.

This isn’t a storyline. It’s real life. Survival. Growth. Perspective.

I wish Kevin a strong recovery, and I send both him and Cody nothing but love, health & continued success.