Before Drew McIntyre re-signed with WWE in 2017 to launch his highly successful second run, the Scottish superstar was reportedly prepared to join New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW). After his release from WWE in 2014, McIntyre spent years revitalizing his career on the independent circuit and international promotions, evolving into a more powerful and technically refined performer. His path back to WWE was not assured, with NJPW being a genuine option during that transitional phase.
From WWE Release to Independent Stardom
Drew McIntyre’s first WWE tenure ended abruptly in July 2014. At that time, creative frustrations and perceived limits in his in-ring style contributed to his release[1][2]. Determined to rebuild, McIntyre dropped the WWE persona “Drew Galloway” in the indie scene and focused on toughening his physique while sharpening his wrestling skills. He gained prestige wrestling in companies such as EVOLVE, Impact Wrestling (formerly TNA), Pro Wrestling Guerrilla, and ICW. His significant accolades included multiple heavyweight championships and the EVOLVE and WCPW world titles among others[1][3][5].
According to a WWE insider familiar with McIntyre’s career trajectory, “Drew was genuinely ready to take on the NJPW challenge. He wanted to prove himself on that stage after WWE let him go, but as talks with WWE gained momentum, he realized coming back home was the best decision for his career.”
The Moment WWE Re-Signed McIntyre
The turning point came at NXT TakeOver: Orlando on April 1, 2017, where McIntyre was shown sitting in the front row—a surprise appearance signaling his return. Official confirmation followed soon after that he had signed back with WWE to perform in the NXT brand[2][3][7]. This reintroduction marked a complete reinvention, with McIntyre adopting a new entrance theme and fan-favorite status. His in-ring style reflected lessons from his independent circuit ventures, exhibiting a more aggressive and confident approach.
On April 12, 2017, McIntyre made his NXT in-ring comeback by defeating Oney Lorcan, sparking his ascent to the top of WWE’s developmental brand. Within months, McIntyre won the NXT Championship by defeating Bobby Roode at NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn III. However, his reign met its end at NXT TakeOver: WarGames in November 2017, where he lost the title to Andrade “Cien” Almas[2][3].
Why New Japan Was a Serious Consideration
New Japan Pro Wrestling has long been recognized globally as a premiere wrestling promotion, particularly noted for its strong style and emphasis on competitive matches[1]. For McIntyre, whose wrestling style had evolved into a more hardened, powerhouse approach, NJPW could have represented an ideal proving ground to further develop his craft and international reputation.
Sources close to McIntyre revealed that the New Japan route was not a fallback but a calculated option considering his career stage in 2016 and early 2017. The potential to work with stars like Kazuchika Okada, Hiroshi Tanahashi, and Kenny Omega would have allowed him to add more dimensions to his wrestling repertoire.
However, WWE’s offer aligned with McIntyre’s desire to finish what he started in WWE and reach new heights on the world’s largest wrestling stage[3]. His decision to opt for WWE reflected not only his loyalty but a strategic choice to capitalize on the company’s global platform.
The Impact of McIntyre’s WWE Return
Since his 2017 return, Drew McIntyre has transformed from a mid-card talent with unrealized potential to a bona fide main-event superstar. Known as “The Scottish Warrior,” his crowning achievement came at WrestleMania 36 in 2020, where he defeated Brock Lesnar to capture his first WWE Championship[4].
McIntyre’s renewed persona combined aggressive striking moves, like his signature Claymore Kick, with a warrior-like intensity grounded in his Scottish heritage. Following his main-event breakthrough, he has solidified his position as a consistent title contender and a fan favorite.
Backstage sources note that McIntyre’s journey from release to top star is “one of the most inspiring comeback stories in modern wrestling.” His willingness to reinvent, including nearly exploring opportunities abroad, demonstrates perseverance that few in WWE have matched.
Looking Ahead: McIntyre’s Place in WWE’s Future
As of 2025, Drew McIntyre continues to perform at a high level across WWE’s Raw and SmackDown brands[5]. His rivalries, including recent intense feuds involving CM Punk and The Usos, show he remains a significant player in WWE storytelling[4].
While his near-move to New Japan remains a fascinating “what-if” scenario, McIntyre’s legacy is firmly rooted in WWE, where he has found “home” after nearly being lost to the independent and international wrestling scenes.
Sources close to WWE confirm that McIntyre’s decision to return was not taken lightly, but the chance to become WWE World Champion and headline major events was a key motivating factor that eclipsed any international opportunities.