10 Post-WWE Runs That Were Nothing Like We Expected
6. EC3
Derrick Bateman was a funny guy but, in the words of Jim Cornette, "Funny doesn't make money."
Back when NXT was still an awful game show, Bateman was stuck there in a Groundhog Day style loop for years. Despite a good physique and promo chops, it was clear WWE didn't see a hell of a lot in the FCW graduate. Released in 2013, Bateman's departure went barely noticed by viewers.
His subsequent rebirth as Ethan Carter III in Impact was a jaw dropper to say the least. Cutting colourful heel promos and ramping up the intensity in his ring work, Carter enjoyed a one way road to the main event. As the spoilt nephew of Dixie Carter, EC3 was an effective heat magnet for the company throughout his bad guy run.
His return to WWE was an exciting prospect this time around right up until he wasn't even allowed to speak on the main roster. A bizarre decision given the mic has always been his biggest strength. Since leaving, EC3's run has been a surprise for fans once again, though this time it's been unexpected mostly for the wrong reasons...