Jack Perry Claims He Asked to be Let Go By AEW, Comments on Not Wrestling for 6 Months

– As noted, AEW’s Jack Perry returned to the ring earlier today at the NJPW 52nd Anniversary show. He beat Shota Umino in the first round of the New Japan Cup tournament. After the match, Perry joined the House of Torture, and the group stood tall over the fallen Umino. In the post-match backstage interview, Perry commented on his in-ring return, his first since AEW All In: London in August. Below are some highlights and a video of Perry’s comments:

Jack Perry on not wrestling for six months: “I feel amazing. You want to know why? I haven’t had a wrestling match for six months! Just for a little point of reference, during the absolute worst time in my entire life, I took one month for me, so now you wonder why six months now? I’ll tell you what, it ain’t cause of me. It’s because other people are afraid. Nobody wants to have the difficult conversations. Everyone’s afraid to let me come back, or even let me go, even when I f***ing asked for it!”

On joining up with House of Torture: “But you know what? I get it. Nobody wants to look in the mirror, so they need somebody to pin up on a cross, so they can go about their daily lives and act like nothing ever happened. Well, guess what? That’s over now. And you know there’s a very select handful of people in the world who still have my back. And tonight? Well, I think I found a few more.”

Perry now advances to the next round of the New Japan Cup tournament. Following the reported backstage incident with CM Punk that took place at AEW All In: London, AEW President Tony Khan confirmed Jack Perry’s suspension. Perry’s earlier comments here appear to suggest he requested his release from the company following the incident, but it was refused.

If using any of the above quotes, please credit NJPW, with an h/t to 411mania.com for the transcription.