MVP confirms upcoming WWE departure, challenges Josh Barnett at Bloodsport XI
MVP is leaving WWE, and already making his first steps.
In a surprise appearance, MVP came to the ring following Barnett’s match against Bad Dude Tito at Bloodsport XI on Sunday. He said he recently got his black belt in jiu jitsu and his contract with a company he wouldn’t mention (WWE) is about to expire, and he’s not going back. He said he has things he wants to do before retiring and issued the challenge. Barnett replied that he didn’t even had to ask, and he’s welcome to come in on his own or with a posse.
Last week, it was reported that both Bobby Lashley and MVP would be leaving WWE when their contracts come up shortly and would be trying to reform the Hurt Business stable with Shelton Benjamin, possibly in AEW. Later in the week, MVP reflected on his current WWE run on Instagram.
While talking to local media in London after meeting with the mayor about potentially bringing WrestleMania to the city, Levesque didn’t give an update on the status of Lashley or MVP.
“Just like any sport, any business, we sign talent, talent contract runs out, we release talent. It’s just part of the process, so it’s an ongoing thing,” he said.
MVP has rarely been seen on television in 2024, most recently accompanying Omos to the ring for the Andre the Giant battle royal that took place on the SmackDown before WrestleMania 40.