During a recent episode of Cody Rhodes’ podcast, What Do You Wanna Talk About?, a remark from Kevin Owens stirred debate, as he discussed former WWE talent charging hefty post-departure booking fees. The conversation, while avoiding direct names, led to former Intercontinental Champion Ryback addressing the topic head-on, asserting that he was the individual Owens referenced and aiming to set the record straight about his career choices and the reasons behind them, making the focus on Kevin Owens comments on Ryback response.
Podcast Remarks Spark Ryback’s Direct Response
Kevin Owens, talking candidly with Cody Rhodes, commented on unnamed former WWE wrestlers, criticizing those who he said “overestimated their appeal” and asked promoters for what he called “insane” amounts following their release from WWE. The name of the wrestler in question was deliberately omitted in the podcast‘s final version, but Ryback immediately recognized himself as the subject and offered a comprehensive public reply on the issue.
Ryback Defends His Booking Rate and Commitment
Ryback did not shy away from associating himself with the controversy, stressing that his post-WWE booking fees were set by his manager, Pat Buck, himself a wrestling promoter. He insisted all promoters benefited financially from collaborating with him, enjoying strong turnout and fan interaction at his events.
“I was made aware & saw the clip of @FightOwensFight & @CodyRhodes, two guys I always liked & got along with. It’s clear they were referencing me, even with the name censored.”
—RYBACK, Former WWE Intercontinental Champion
Providing further background, Ryback clarified the consistency of his independent bookings and underscored the added value he offered at each appearance, which included meet-and-greets, ample fan time, and intense in-ring action.
“For context: I was booked solid for 3 years straight after WWE. My rate was set by my then-manager Pat Buck (a promoter himself), and every promoter I worked with made money and got my full effort, meet & greets, matches, fan time, all of it.”
—RYBACK, Former WWE Intercontinental Champion
Health Crisis Forces Career Pause
Addressing speculation about his absence from the wrestling scene, Ryback revealed the true reason was not market demand, but medical necessity. He shared details of his physical setbacks, recounting the health warnings he received after sustaining severe neck and shoulder injuries, which required intensive surgical interventions.
“What’s often left out: I walked away from a multi-million dollar WWE contract. I wasn’t fired. I needed a 5-disc fusion and full right shoulder replacement at 34. I was told not to wrestle again. I had nerve damage that risked paralysis if I continued.”
—RYBACK, Former WWE Intercontinental Champion
Personal Sacrifices During Hiatus
Ryback said that prioritizing personal responsibilities also kept him away from the ring. He described staying home to care for his dog Sophie who, facing her own health struggles, required surgeries and daily attention. Ryback emphasized the value he placed on this time, both as an act of caretaking and personal healing.
“I also made the choice to stay home and care for my dog Sophie, who developed severe disc disease, had multiple ruptures and surgeries, and was paralyzed twice. I refused to put her down just to keep traveling and making more money, I already had what I needed.”
—RYBACK, Former WWE Intercontinental Champion
“Sophie turns 10 this November. And every second with her was worth it.”
—RYBACK, Former WWE Intercontinental Champion
Extensive Recovery and Hopes for In-Ring Return
Throughout his hiatus, Ryback underwent an extensive regimen of medical treatments, particularly focused on regenerative therapies for his spine. After twenty stem cell treatments, he reports significant physical improvement, especially the regrowth of discs, giving him hope for an eventual return to wrestling.
“I’ve had 20 stem cell procedures and was blessed to regrow all 5 discs in my back. I’m now finally close to being able to return.”
—RYBACK, Former WWE Intercontinental Champion
Reaction to ‘Low Blow’ and Letting Go of the Past
While he acknowledged that Owens’ remarks — made alongside Rhodes — felt harsh, especially as they came from former colleagues he admired, Ryback expressed a continued spirit of reconciliation, stating clearly that he does not harbor any bitterness towards either man or WWE at large.
“So yes, I do feel the comment was a low blow, especially coming from two guys I respected and spoke well of. But I’m not bitter. I’ve made peace with @WWE and let go of the past.”
—RYBACK, Former WWE Intercontinental Champion
“This isn’t a storyline. It’s real life. Survival. Growth. Perspective.”
—RYBACK, Former WWE Intercontinental Champion
His final comments extended good wishes to both Kevin Owens and Cody Rhodes, emphasizing closure and goodwill as he focuses on recovery and future opportunities.
“I wish Kevin a strong recovery, and I send both him and Cody nothing but love, health & continued success. 🙏”
—RYBACK, Former WWE Intercontinental Champion
What This Means for Ryback, Owens, and the Wrestling Community
The exchange between Ryback, Kevin Owens, and Cody Rhodes spotlights the often-complex realities that WWE alumni face after leaving the company, be they in personal health, career management, or the judgment of peers. Ryback’s pointed response provides insight into his journey beyond the ring, with ongoing health recovery and hopes for a comeback. The conversation has also generated discussion among fans and promoters about the value of wrestling talent after WWE, management decisions made by athletes, and the personal sacrifices made for both career and family.
Whether this exchange leads to further public dialogue or in-ring storylines, the intense emotions and candid details on display have added new layers to the ongoing narrative involving Ryback, Owens, Rhodes, and the broader wrestling landscape.
