10 Wrestlers Who Revived Their Careers On The Indies
9. DH Smith
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.