Austin Theory’s WWE future has been the subject of much speculation as the former United States Champion has been sidelined for several months due to injury. Despite his prolonged absence from WWE main roster programming, recent insider reports reveal that WWE still has major plans for Theory’s return, including a potential main event-level heel push aligned with upcoming big events like Survivor Series WarGames.
Austin Theory’s Absence and Current Status
Austin Theory has been off WWE television since mid-2025, with no matches on RAW for over five months and only a handful of appearances in televised main roster shows this year. His last notable on-screen involvement ended with the dissolution of his tag team with Grayson Waller, who has since moved on by aligning himself with The New Day. Theory’s injury recovery has been ongoing, causing WWE to shift creative gears and explore new storyline directions in his absence[1][2].
Sources close to WWE report that Theory’s removal from the tag scene and his sustained injury created uncertainty, but he was still considered as an option for the men’s Survivor Series WarGames team alongside top-tier talent such as Seth Rollins and Brock Lesnar[1][6].
Survivor Series WarGames and The Vision’s Implosion Impact
Originally, Austin Theory was slated to be part of the heel faction known as The Vision, a group including Seth Rollins, Bron Breakker, Bronson Reed, and Brock Lesnar, set to face babyface counterparts headed by CM Punk and Roman Reigns. However, Seth Rollins’ unexpected injury seemingly led WWE to accelerate the breakup of The Vision, thereby putting Theory’s initial creative plans on hold[2][6].
A senior WWE insider shared anonymously:
“The Vision was supposed to be the launching pad for Austin’s new role, but with Seth down, the storyline had to be reworked quickly. That pushed Austin’s return and character shift into a bit of limbo, yet the company remains committed to utilizing his potential as soon as he’s healthy.”
Creative Reset: From Undercard Comedy to Main Event Heel
One of the most intriguing developments is the dramatic shift in Austin Theory’s character trajectory. Before his injury, Theory was seen as an undercard talent with comedic elements, notably in his tag relationship with Grayson Waller that showed signs of breaking down potentially leading to a babyface turn.
However, the backstage creative team, as reported by Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, has since pivoted. WWE now envisions Theory returning as a main event-level heel, elevating him into a far more prominent role. His inclusion in a star-studded heel WarGames team alongside Rollins, Lesnar, and other top stars underlines this marked change in direction[3][7][8].
Meltzer further revealed how Theory’s look and ring presence factor significantly into WWE’s long-term plans for him:
“He’s one of those guys who, because of his look, will get repeated chances to be a top guy — even if he isn’t fully over like a traditional main eventer, the powers that be see star potential in him.”[7]
What This Means for WWE’s Upcoming Storylines
WWE’s internal planning for Survivor Series WarGames still appears fluid but ambitious. The straightforward inclusion of Austin Theory in the heel WarGames squad points to a creative commitment to reestablish him as a major villain. Given Seth Rollins’ injury, the company may redefine The Vision or redesign its heel faction dynamic, potentially using Theory as a central anchor.
Industry analysts predict that once Theory returns, WWE will heavily push him in high-profile storylines to solidify his status at the main event level, possibly positioning him as a regular adversary to top babyfaces like Roman Reigns or CM Punk. This would represent a significant elevation compared to his former midcard and comedic roles[3][4].
What Fans Can Expect Moving Forward
- Austin Theory’s return is anticipated imminently, pending full health clearance.
- He will likely receive a prominent heel push, distinguishing him from his previous undercard status.
- WWE could integrate him into major factions or directly position him against established top stars.
- The Survivor Series WarGames match will be a key event showcasing his new character alignment and elevated status[1][3][6].
A WWE insider close to creative told us:
“Theory’s physical attributes and work ethic keep him in the spotlight backstage. Fans will see a much edgier Austin when he returns — someone WWE expects to carry big storylines moving forward.”
Conclusion
Though Austin Theory’s absence raised questions about his position in WWE, all indications now suggest a big comeback is on the horizon. With a fresh main event heel persona aligned with top-tier talent and major events like Survivor Series WarGames, WWE is setting up Theory for a substantial leap in his career. Fans keenly await his upcoming appearances to see if Theory can fulfill the company’s renewed vision for him as a future superstar.
This evolving story will remain one to watch closely as WWE navigates injuries and reshapes its roster dynamics toward the end of 2025.