Bronson Reed, a powerhouse in professional wrestling, made headlines when he returned to WWE. Known for his incredible strength and dominant presence in the ring, his comeback was highly anticipated by fans worldwide. However, the reality of his return didn’t match his expectations, and his reactions showed signs of a deeper story. Let’s dive into the factors that influenced his WWE journey, what went wrong, and how Reed is navigating the ever-challenging world of wrestling entertainment.

### A Long-Awaited Comeback

Bronson Reed, originally released from WWE in August 2021, had made significant strides on the independent wrestling circuit and in other promotions, like New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). His journey back to WWE was unexpected, as many believed he would continue to thrive outside the company. Despite this, Reed’s decision to return reflected his desire to establish himself as a prominent WWE Superstar and to realize the unfulfilled potential from his initial run.

When he re-signed with WWE, expectations were high. Fans and wrestling analysts alike speculated about potential feuds, title runs, and standout moments that would solidify Reed’s place on the main roster. However, the reality of his return fell short, sparking concerns about his booking, utilization, and overall direction in WWE.

### A Lukewarm Reception

Despite the buzz surrounding his return, Reed’s re-debut on WWE programming didn’t generate the kind of impact expected. He returned in late 2022 during an episode of _Monday Night Raw_, aligning himself with established stars, but his presence didn’t stand out as much as anticipated. The reception from the audience was mixed, with some fans excited to see him back, while others seemed indifferent, possibly due to a lack of storyline build-up and character development leading up to his return.

This lukewarm response was a stark contrast to the reactions of other returning stars, such as Cody Rhodes or Bray Wyatt, whose comebacks were met with much fanfare. The subtlety and lack of a proper reintroduction to Reed’s character contributed to a diminished impact, leaving the audience unsure about his role and significance.

### Booking Issues and Underutilization

One of the significant issues Reed faced was inconsistent booking. Unlike his stint in _NXT_, where he was pushed as a dominant force and even captured the NXT North American Championship, his main roster journey lacked the same momentum. The absence of a meaningful storyline made it difficult for him to connect with the audience and establish himself as a threat in the ring.

This underutilization became apparent as he was often placed in mid-card matches without any significant storyline development. His lack of involvement in any title picture, despite being a former champion, and the absence of significant rivalries hindered his ability to make a mark on the main roster.

### The Psychological Impact on Reed

The inconsistency in his booking and reception seemed to take a toll on Bronson Reed. His reactions in and outside the ring indicated frustration. Unlike his confident persona displayed in _NXT_, there were instances where his facial expressions and body language reflected discontent with how things were unfolding.

In interviews, Reed expressed a mixture of gratitude for his return and subtle disappointment about the direction of his character. It was evident that he wasn’t satisfied with merely being part of the show; he wanted to be a significant player in the WWE landscape. His drive to succeed clashed with the creative direction provided, resulting in a struggle to align his ambitions with WWE’s vision.

### Comparing _NXT_ Success vs. Main Roster Struggles

Reed’s initial run in _NXT_ set a high bar for his return. In _NXT_, he thrived under a booking style that highlighted his strengths as a big man with surprising agility, and he had a clear path to the top of the roster. His _NXT TakeOver_ matches showcased his ability to deliver main-event-level performances, helping solidify him as a star on the rise.

However, the transition from _NXT_ to the main roster has historically been challenging for many wrestlers, and Reed was no exception. The differences in booking philosophy, audience, and character development often lead to main roster struggles, which has been an ongoing issue for many former _NXT_ stars. In Reed’s case, the challenges were evident, and it highlighted the difficulties in maintaining the same momentum across WWE’s different brands.

### Missed Opportunities for Storyline Development

Several missed opportunities contributed to the perception that Reed’s return wasn’t fully capitalized upon. For instance, feuds with prominent stars such as Drew McIntyre, Bobby Lashley, or even a David vs. Goliath-style rivalry with someone like Rey Mysterio could have helped establish his character and wrestling style. Instead, Reed was left without a clear direction, often floating between matches that lacked any significant storyline or emotional depth.

The absence of character development also played a role in limiting Reed’s connection with the audience. In _NXT_, his background, struggles, and triumphs were part of his journey, which made fans more invested in him. On the main roster, this narrative was missing, leaving casual viewers with little to latch onto.

### Reed’s Reaction: A Mix of Determination and Frustration

Reed’s response to the situation was a blend of determination and visible frustration. He continued to put forth his best effort in the ring, showcasing his athleticism and power in every match. However, there were times when his expressions and demeanor indicated a sense of dissatisfaction, possibly due to unfulfilled expectations.

It’s clear that Reed wants more than just a place on the card; he aspires to be a top star who leaves a lasting impact in WWE. His ambitions are not lost on the fans who supported him during his _NXT_ days, and many continue to rally behind him, hoping that the creative team will find a suitable storyline that allows Reed to shine.

### Future Possibilities: Can Reed Turn Things Around?

While Bronson Reed’s return hasn’t been as impactful as expected, it’s not too late for WWE to course-correct. There are several potential directions that could help him regain momentum and establish himself as a significant force on the roster:

1. **Establish a Clear Character Arc**: Reed’s character needs to be fleshed out with a compelling backstory that resonates with the audience. Whether it’s tapping into his struggles, his journey outside WWE, or his quest for redemption, a clear narrative would help him connect with fans.
2. **Push Towards a Mid-Card Title**: Contending for titles like the United States Championship or the Intercontinental Championship would give Reed more purpose on the show. It would also allow him to have high-stakes matches, showcasing his skills and adding legitimacy to his character.
3. **Feuds with Established Stars**: Engaging in rivalries with high-profile WWE Superstars could significantly boost Reed’s credibility. Battling against veterans would not only give him exposure but also provide opportunities for memorable matches that fans can rally around.
4. **Emphasize His Unique Wrestling Style**: Reed’s combination of size, agility, and power sets him apart from other wrestlers. Highlighting this unique blend in his matches can create excitement and establish him as a must-see performer.

### Learning from Past Mistakes

For Reed to truly succeed, WWE needs to address the gaps in his booking. His journey is a reminder that talent alone isn’t enough to thrive in wrestling’s biggest company. Proper storytelling, consistent character development, and strategic booking decisions are essential to create stars that resonate with the audience.

Bronson Reed’s career can still flourish, but it will require WWE to commit to a creative vision that places him in meaningful storylines. Learning from past missteps and taking proactive steps to remedy them can ensure that Reed’s WWE journey doesn’t end up as another example of wasted potential.

### Conclusion

Bronson Reed’s return to WWE wasn’t what he or his fans expected, but the door remains open for a more significant impact. His reactions to his booking suggest a wrestler who knows his worth and is eager to prove it. While the journey hasn’t been smooth, with the right direction, Reed could still establish himself as a dominant force on WWE’s main roster.

The path to success in WWE is rarely straightforward, and Bronson Reed’s experiences underscore the complexities involved. His story is still unfolding, and there’s potential for an impressive turnaround if WWE capitalizes on his strengths. Whether it’s through a storyline that resonates, feuds that elevate, or matches that captivate, Reed’s best moments in WWE could still be on the horizon.