Heath Slater On Potential WWE Return: ‘I Haven’t Burned Bridges’

After nearly six years away from the company, former WWE Tag Team Champion Heath Slater is addressing the possibility of a return to his former home. Speaking with Developmentally Speaking, Slater reflected on his 2020 release during the pandemic and the current state of his wrestling career as he nears his mid-40s.

Slater emphasized that he left the company on good terms and has avoided the pitfalls of “burning bridges” that often prevent talent from returning. He described himself as a loyal worker during his tenure and noted that he still feels capable of competing at a high level despite his age.

“It’s like I haven’t burned bridges. You know what I mean? I haven’t done anything bad. I was a good soldier — I was a hell of a soldier. But it’s one of those things where WWE never really looks at you when they fire you until three years later, type deal. You never see guys coming straight back. It takes time. I’m 42. I know for a fact I can still go because I’ve been wrestling these damn 20-something-year-olds, and they’re not blowing me up yet. I’m still having fun, being honest.”

The “One Man Rock Band” specifically mentioned a scenario that would immediately pique his interest: a reunion with his former 3MB stablemate. With Drew McIntyre currently positioned as one of the top stars on RAW, Slater sees a logical opening for a short-term comeback that could eventually transition into a backstage role.

“If WWE ever called and said, ‘Hey man, Drew McIntyre needs some help. We need to bring the band back together,’ I’d be like, ‘Hell yeah, baby. Sign me for about a year or two.’ But I’d follow it up with, ‘After that, could I be an agent or a trainer or something? Maybe help some of these kids out a little bit.’ I’m not at the bottom of the ninth inning, but I’m definitely at the bottom of the eighth. I know that for a fact.”

While Slater believes he has “a good handful of years left in the ring,” he is already considering how he can contribute to the industry once his active career concludes. He expressed a strong desire to transition into a coaching or agent role, helping the next generation of wrestlers navigate the business.

“After that, could I be an agent or a trainer or something? Maybe help some of these kids out a little bit. I probably have a good handful of years left in the ring after that, brother.”

The 3MB stable, consisting of Slater, Drew McIntyre, and Jinder Mahal, remains a cult favorite among fans of the early 2010s era. While McIntyre and Mahal both went on to become WWE Champions following their initial releases, Slater has found success on the independent circuit and in TNA Wrestling. McIntyre is currently scheduled for a high-profile matchup at WrestleMania 42, where he continues to be a central figure in the World Heavyweight Title picture.