Eric Young Expected to Join WWE NXT in September After TNA Departure

Eric Young’s next chapter appears to be back in WWE. After securing his release from TNA Wrestling earlier this week — a move Young himself confirmed he requested — the veteran is now widely expected to return to the company he last worked for years ago.

TNA confirmed Young’s departure on Wednesday, July 2, and the man himself was quick to clarify that the split was entirely his own doing, with the promotion granting his request without issue. The door didn’t take long to swing open elsewhere.

Dave Meltzer of F4WOnline.com has reported that WWE has had internal discussions about bringing Young back in a dual capacity — both as an active performer and in a coaching role. The comparison being drawn internally is to Shawn Spears, who currently operates in a similar player-coach setup within NXT. Earlier reporting had also indicated that WWE was open to a Young reunion, so the current momentum shouldn’t come as a complete surprise.

As for timing, the expectation within WWE is that Young would begin his new run with NXT, though not right away. The current plan has him coming in around September, giving both sides a window to finalize whatever arrangement is being put together.

Young is no stranger to WWE, having made his name on the main roster and in developmental over multiple stints throughout his career. A return to NXT in a blended in-ring and coaching role would be a natural fit given his experience level, and it adds another seasoned hand to a brand that has leaned heavily on that kind of veteran presence in recent years. If things stay on track, fans could expect to see EY back under the WWE banner before the fall is out.