Controversy Surrounds Chris Hero's Reported WWE Return
Is the independent grappler coming back to the company?
On Sunday, The Wrestling Observer Newsletter reported that Chris Hero - who previously competed in NXT under the name Kassius Ohno - would be heading back to the company. Monday morning, Hero took to Twitter to simply announce, "I can't help but to be disappointed by irresponsible journalism." That has cast doubt over whether Hero is actually returning to WWE, but WON's Dave Meltzer tweeted that Hero wasn't referring to him or the WON's reporting. At this point, the whole story remains unknown.
Hero had a WWE tryout in 2011 alongside partner Claudio Castagnoli (Cesaro), but his signing was delayed after issues with his physical. He eventually debuted for the brand in 2012, and would go on to feud with Richie Steamboat, William Regal, and The Wyatt Family. During his time in NXT, he was recommended for the slot in The Shield that eventually went to Roman Reigns. He was released from the company in late 2013.
Chris Hero has long been considered one of the top independent worker in the business, but he's also amassed a negative reputation over the years. In 2004, he was involved in an argument with a ringside fan that saw Hero make racist comments toward the fan, then hit him.