Mike Kanellis was back in the ring for the first time since he publicly requested his release from WWE.
Kanellis made a surprise appearance at the NXT live event in Melbourne, FL on Friday, Jan. 17. He last wrestled on September 24, 2019 against Chad Gable (now Shorty G) on WWE SmackDown. On Oct. 14, Kanellis posted on social media a public release request from WWE. Kanellis' request came four months after he and his wife Maria signed new five-year deals with the company.
In November, Kanellis opened up about his release request, saying he just wanted an opportunity to work.
@marykayfabe look who I get to see @RealMikeBennett #NXTMelbourne pic.twitter.com/s8gaRgHVjW
— Mia Simmons (@Poohbaby925) January 18, 2020
I'm so excited to see @TonyNese again! #NXTMelbourne pic.twitter.com/EOREdGP19e
— Shauna (@Shauna_Alxandra) January 18, 2020
Kanellis was not part of the October draft pool for Raw and SmackDown. Friday marked Kanellis' NXT debut as he first appeared at WWE Money in the Bank, immediately joining the main roster when he signed in 2017.
Fightful will have full results from NXT live in Melbourne following the conclusion of the event.
