10 Wrestlers Who Revived Their Careers On The Indies

9. DH Smith

Loaded Drew Galloway
WWE.com

A former WWE Tag Team Champion, Harry Smith was let go from his WWE contract in 2011. The big Canadian had done little of note since splitting from partner Tyson Kidd earlier that year, and actually sat inactive for the last four months of his contract, having previously been relegated to performing on Superstars.

Smith made his independent wrestling return just 15 days later, and was working in Japan by the end of August. He continued touring the world’s smaller stages, rebuilding his reputation with matches against the likes of the future Kevin Owens, before embracing his heritage as the British Bulldog’s son, and competing as Davey Boy Smith Jr.

The former Hart Dynasty man is thriving in 2017. He’s currently under NJPW contract, but regularly travels to North America for independent bookings, and at 31 years old, he’s regarded as one of the best big men in the business.

Smith’s WWE release came at the end of a dismal spell on the lower card, but his hard work on the indies allowed him to secure a long-term deal with NJPW, where he has enjoyed more opportunities than WWE would ever allow him.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.