Braun Strowman Makes In-Ring Return After More Than A Year Away

Braun Strowman has stepped back into the ring for the first time in more than a year. He made his in-ring return at Great Lakes Championship Wrestling’s Blizzard Brawl after his WWE contract expired.

The former WWE Universal Champion competed at the independent event alongside Kal Herro in a handicap match against Tony Evans, Drew Hernandez, and Tommy Boy. Strowman and Herro picked up the win, marking Strowman’s first match since the April 18, 2025, episode of SmackDown. The bout also marked his first appearance since leaving WWE following the expiration of his contract in July 2025.

Although it was his first match in well over a year, GLCW was familiar territory for Strowman. He previously wrestled for the promotion during his time away from WWE in 2021 and 2022. However, this was his first independent booking since he left WWE last year.

Strowman’s comeback follows a lengthy period away from the ring that included several health setbacks. Earlier this year, he revealed that a severe illness caused him to lose 36 pounds and forced him off WWE television for several weeks.

Even while recovering, Strowman stayed in the spotlight through his USA Network series Everything on the Menu, which airs after SmackDown. The show was recently renewed for a second season, with 12 new episodes on the way.

After more than a year away from competition, Braun Strowman is officially back between the ropes. Whether this appearance leads to more independent dates or another run with a major promotion remains to be seen.