Former WWE champion teases bringing back old persona amid injury hiatus

A former champion, who has been out of in-ring action due to injury, has teased bringing back an old gimmick ahead of his return to WWE programming. He had undergone surgery in February.

Former WWE Intercontinental Champion Apollo Crews recently posted a social media update, hinting at his return to the squared circle. The 37-year-old has been away since he tore his pectoral muscle during his match against #DIY’s Johnny Gargano on the January 24 episode of Friday Night SmackDown. However, he showcased impeccable grit and dedication to not only complete the bout but also emerge victorious.

Apollo Crews took to his Instagram account earlier today to drop another tease. The SmackDown star recalled playing a character in which he declared himself Nigerian royalty. Crews could be hinting at returning to his 2021 gimmick, with which he defeated Big E in a Nigerian Drum Fight to win the WWE Intercontinental Championship at WrestleMania 37.

“I was initially hesitant, but embracing this character became some of the most fun I’ve had throughout my wrestling career. I committed not only to performing to the best of my ability, but taking my physique to a different level as well.” he wrote.

You can check out Apollo Crews’ Instagram post below:

Apollo Crews recently provided a health update amid WWE hiatus

Apollo Crews posted multiple pictures of himself working out in a gym, sharing a positive health update on Instagram a few weeks back.

In the caption, the former United States Champion claimed that he was feeling good. Crews noted that he did not suffer from any physical pain, but he faced a mental hurdle, which he jumped over after putting in lots of work.

“Been crushin the rehab. Feeling good. I never really had any physical pain, but it took a while to get my mental game right after the injury happened. I’m over that hump now. Just waking up taking it day by day and putting in the work. 👊🏿 @carbondietcoach keeping me on top of my nutrition. 🥙💪🏿,” he wrote.

You can check out the Instagram post below:

Only time will tell when Apollo Crews returns to WWE programming. It will be interesting to see what plans the promotion has in store for the SmackDown star.