IMPACT Wrestling Star Retires From The Ring

This IMPACT star will no longer be taking wrestling bookings, focusing their energy elsewhere...

Impact Wrestling
IMPACT

IMPACT Wrestling's Matthew Rehwoldt is stepping away from in-ring competition.

The 34-year-old announced on Friday that he is no longer taking bookings to compete, saying that he plans on focusing his efforts on the broadcasting side of wrestling instead. Stating that he doesn't feel like he belongs between the ropes anymore, Rehwoldt added that he is technically a free agent now, inviting companies who needs an entertaining, experienced voice to get in touch.

Rehwoldt tweeted:-

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Matthew has been with IMPACT Wrestling since July 2021, when a vignette hyping his arrival was shown at Slammiversary. Aligned with Knockouts Division doyenne Deonna Purrazzo, Rehwoldt won the promotion's first ever Homecoming King and Queen tournament, though he later transitioned into a dual role as commentator and part-time wrestler. He last competed for the company on 14 May, losing to Digital Media Champion Rich Swann.

Pre-IMPACT, Rehwoldt worked for WWE as Aiden English between 2012 and 2014. Initially rising to prominence as a member of the Vaudevillains with Simon Gotch, he found glory as an NXT Tag Team Champion before transitioning to the main roster, eventually getting over to a new level alongside Rusev.

Rusev Day were never pushed to their popularity's level, however. Following their split, Rehwoldt dabbled in commentary on the now-defunct 205 Live, but was released in WWE's first round of swooping pandemic-related "budget cuts" in April 2020.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. 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.