It has been almost four years since Big E last competed inside a WWE ring. For a long time, fans hoped he would make a surprise return. Sadly, that comeback will not happen. The former WWE Champion has officially announced his retirement from in-ring action, bringing an emotional chapter of his career to a close.
How Big E’s Career-Ending Injury Happened
Big E suffered his devastating injury during a match on Friday Night SmackDown. He was teaming with Kofi Kingston against Sheamus and Ridge Holland. During the match, Ridge Holland delivered a belly-to-belly suplex on the outside of the ring. Big E landed awkwardly on his neck.
The impact caused a serious neck injury. Doctors later confirmed that he had broken his C1 vertebra — a very dangerous injury.
At first, Big E did not realise how serious it was. He said he was not in extreme pain and did not feel any nerve damage. Doctors initially believed he might recover after wearing a neck brace for about eight weeks.
However, further medical examinations revealed that he had suffered what is called a Jefferson Fracture. This type of fracture affects the C1 vertebra at the top of the spine. In his case, the bone was broken in two places.
Doctors explained that instead of healing fully with new bone, the injured area could form cartilage. That would leave the neck vulnerable to serious long-term damage.
After consulting spine specialist Dr. Juan Uribe and other medical experts, Big E realised the risks were too high. One doctor even urged him to reconsider returning, saying that even if he got medical clearance, it would not be worth the gamble.
That advice made a big impact on him.
Why Big E Chose to Retire
Big E recently shared that he mentally accepted retirement almost immediately after the injury. Even though fans held onto hope, he knew deep down that continuing to wrestle would put his health in serious danger.
He also reflected on seeing older wrestling legends around WrestleMania events. Many of them, despite not being very old, were struggling with mobility and long-term pain. Watching that reality made him think deeply about his future.
Big E explained that he loves wrestling and being an athlete, but he did not want to risk permanent damage just to return to the ring. His health had to come first.
Before even starting wrestling, Big E’s body had already taken punishment from his college football and powerlifting days. By the time he joined WWE in 2009, he had already endured years of physical strain.
After more than a decade in WWE, the toll became clear.
Big E’s WWE Achievements and Legacy
Big E’s career was filled with major accomplishments. He became one of the most popular and respected stars in WWE.
Here is a quick look at his achievements:
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| WWE Championship | Won in 2021 |
| Tag Team Championships | 8-time champion with The New Day |
| Grand Slam Champion | Achieved major title milestones |
| WWE Debut | Signed in 2009 |
As a member of The New Day alongside Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods, Big E helped redefine tag team wrestling. The group broke records, entertained fans worldwide, and became one of WWE’s most successful factions ever.
Winning the WWE Championship in 2021 was a career highlight. It proved that Big E was more than just a tag team specialist — he was a main event star.
What’s Next for Big E?
Although his in-ring career is over, Big E has not completely stepped away from WWE. He continues to appear occasionally on broadcast panels and special events.
Many fans believe he could have a long future in roles such as commentary, hosting, mentoring younger talent, or even creative work behind the scenes.
Given his charisma, intelligence, and positive attitude, Big E’s presence in WWE will likely continue in different ways.
