WWE Star Confirms They’re Not Injured, Just 'Waiting'

Posting a simple yet telling update on Instagram, Bate wrote:

“Not injured. Waiting…”

Bate, who made his return to Monday Night Raw in March 2025 following an injury setback the previous summer, has not appeared on the flagship show since then. Instead, he and longtime tag team partner Pete Dunne have been relegated to WWE Main Event, where they continue to compete as part of the popular New Catch Republic duo. Dunne, formerly known as Butch, was brought back with his old gimmick, and the team was reunited when Bate recovered from his injury.

Since then, both have been good to go, and the prolonged absence is somewhat puzzling. Both are ready to wrestle and could be used as a tag team in any one of several storylines. Yet, WWE doesn't seem to have a place for them. Considering WWE President Nick Khan recently stated that WWE doesn't "park" talent when they are healthy, it's unclear why they are not being utilized.

Some fans have speculated that recent shifts on Raw and SmackDown, including time changes and a lack of opportunity to promote feuds, could explain the lack of creative ideas. Others are criticizing Triple H for not finding an effective way to use the duo. The company has signed some new faces and brought over talent from AEW. There is only so much air time to go around.

Are Bate and Dunne At Risk Of Being Released?

It's too soon to know if either Bate or Dunne are at risk of being released, but fans should not be shocked if that occurs should the tag team not show up on Raw or SmackDown in the near future. WWE has released several talents, many of whom were actively involved in angles and storylines on the show. Two talents who are not being used might be more susceptible to being let go.

Until that happens (if it ever does), Bate’s message shows he is healthy, ready, and waiting for WWE to pull the trigger on whatever comes next for his character.

Fans are hopeful that Bate’s undeniable talent will get another opportunity to shine.