A few weeks ago, former WWE Intercontinental, United States, and Tag Team Champion Shelton Benjamin was announced to be making his return to the WWE on the SmackDown! Live brand. However, during WWE’s physical test, it was discovered Benjamin had been working with an injury and won’t be returning at this time.
Benjamin took to Twitter and apologized to fans, but thanked WWE for the opportunity to once again entertain its audiences.
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I am both disappointed & sadden to announce that due to a serious injury to my shoulder I will not be returning to @WWE at this time.
โ Shelton J. Benjamin (@Sheltyb803) August 7, 2016
For now I will have to put pro-wrestling to the side as I prepare to undergo surgery to repair my torn rotator.
โ Shelton J. Benjamin (@Sheltyb803) August 7, 2016
Thank you @WWE for helping me discover this situation & for giving me an opportunity to return. I will be back
โ Shelton J. Benjamin (@Sheltyb803) August 7, 2016
It doesn’t necessarily mean that Benjamin won’t return down the line, but with a torn rotator, it isn’t exactly something you can come back from quickly. It’s disappointing for sure as there’s an entirely new roster to go against, but thankful the WWE doctors discovered it before it was too late.