Drew McIntyre Backstage at WWE SmackDown Taping in Pittsburgh: Return Incoming?
The WWE Universe might not have seen Drew McIntyre on TV in recent weeks, but that doesn’t mean he’s far from the action. The former WWE Champion was spotted backstage during the June 30, 2025, Monday Night RAW and SmackDown tapings at the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to sources at the event, McIntyre was not trying to hide his presence. He was openly seen mingling with WWE Superstars, producers, and other staff members throughout the night. This is noteworthy because WWE usually keeps big-name returns under wraps, shielding them from public view to preserve the surprise factor. The fact that McIntyre was in plain sight has fueled intense speculation.
Why It Matters
McIntyre hasn’t appeared on WWE programming since his violent Steel Cage Match against Damian Priest at Saturday Night’s Main Event on May 24. That match ended with McIntyre being laid out cold after a brutal Con-Chair-To, leaving fans stunned and concerned about his condition.
Later, McIntyre revealed in an interview with the Orlando Sentinel that he was dealing with real injuries, including a neck issue. “I can’t turn my head all the way left yet,” he admitted. McIntyre emphasized that this time around, he’s not rushing a return and wants to ensure he’s 100% before stepping back into the ring.
This has led to a “wait-and-see” status internally within WWE. Recent backstage reports indicated that there were “no creative plans” lined up for McIntyre’s return as of last week. However, his presence in Pittsburgh could signal that something has changed.
What Could Be Next?
The timing is intriguing. WWE Evolution is coming up on July 13, and WWE Clash in Paris is scheduled soon after. If McIntyre is cleared and creatively involved again, he could be a huge addition to either event. His potential return could also shake up current title feuds or even serve as a surprise participant in the announced Battle Royal.
With CM Punk, Seth Rollins, and GUNTHER all making major moves recently, WWE is clearly stacking its roster for major summer storylines. Could McIntyre be the next domino to fall?
While it’s possible he’s just checking in with WWE or supporting his colleagues backstage, his visibility—and lack of secrecy—feels like more than a casual visit.
