Jake Hager Firmly Rules Out WWE Royal Rumble Return, Confirms Retirement & New Career
TAMPA, FL – Former WWE World Heavyweight Champion Jake Hager has definitively closed teh door on a potential return to the ring, specifically dismissing speculation surrounding a possible appearance in the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia. Hager, who officially retired from professional wrestling earlier this year, stated bluntly in an interview with Sportskeeda, “I sincerely doubt it.” When pressed for a reason, he added, “I don’t think they like me very much,” specifying his comment referred to those responsible for booking the Royal Rumble.
Hager’s departure from active competition marks the end of a notable career spanning both WWE and AEW, following a brief foray into MMA. He enjoyed a nearly decade-long run in WWE as Jack Swagger, capturing championship titles including the WWE World Heavyweight, ECW, and United States Championships. While once a popular figure known for his amateur wrestling background and the “We The People” catchphrase, Hager hasn’t wrestled for WWE since 2017.After leaving WWE, he competed in Bellator MMA, achieving an undefeated record in his initial fights, before joining AEW in 2019 as Jake Hager, aligning himself with Chris Jericho’s Inner Circle and participating in high-profile matches like Stadium Stampede.
The wrestler confirmed his retirement during an appearance on the Rule breakers with Sayara podcast, revealing his transition to a new career path.Hager is now focused on running a trucking company based in Tampa, Florida, managing routes throughout the state. ”I’m getting out of wrestling. I pretty much, I could say I’m retired from it,” Hager explained. “I started a trucking company and so… running routes through Tampa and Florida. I’m not driving, got people driving. But yeah, I’m excited. Something to stick my teeth into. Hard work always pays off.”
