While John Bradshaw Layfield was present at the 2023 WWE Royal Rumble PLE, fans who were hoping to see the former WWE Champion step back into the ring were left disappointed. Now, thanks to JBL himself, the reason for his absence from the match has been revealed, he simply declined the opportunity because he wasn’t in shape.
Speaking candidly on the Something to Wrestle podcast, JBL recounted the moment WWE approached him about participating in the Royal Rumble held in San Antonio, Texas. His response was direct and humorously self-aware.
“I can’t get in the Royal Rumble!” JBL said. He further elaborated on his reasoning when the topic of fellow veteran Booker T’s participation was brought up. “They said, ‘Oh, Booker’s in it.’ I said, ‘Yeah, he’s in shape, and he looks good. I’m not!’”
Booker T, a beloved figure in his home state of Texas, did indeed enter the match to a roaring ovation. JBL, however, remained in then role as the manager and mentor of Baron Corbin, escorting him to the ring. Interestingly, JBL revealed a moment of potential backstage drama involving Brock Lesnar.
“I found out, at the Royal Rumble, that Brock Lesnar was coming out right after I walked Baron Corbin out, and I came back, and I literally told Brock, ‘Brock, you do not walk out of this dressing room until I’m back. You’ll break me,’” JBL added.
As it turned out, Lesnar entered the Royal Rumble match just two spots before Corbin. Their combined time in the ring was a mere 2 minutes and 35 seconds, highlighting the potential danger JBL was keen to avoid.
In recent times, the WWE Hall of Famer has been prioritizing his health, having recently undergone stem cell treatment. While he has made sporadic appearances for other promotions like AAA, GCW, and even TNA, JBL’s focus appears to be on staying out of active competition. Despite this, wrestlers like Frankie Kazarian have publicly expressed their desire to face him in the ring.
JBL has also recently discussed the possibility of a full-time return to WWE commentary. However, his clear reluctance to take bumps suggests that his in-ring days are likely behind him.
Also Read: JBL Dismisses Claims About The 2002 Mr. Perfect vs. Brock Lesnar Airplane Fight
