It appears as though, at least at one point, WWE had a feud in mind for Luke Harper.
According to Dave Meltzer on Westling Observer Radio, the former Wyatt Family member was scheduled to feud with Sami Zayn.
The details of the feud are unknown, but it’s clear that the proposed program has since been cancelled entirely.
“This Decision, As Difficult As It Was, Feels Right”
Harper received double ligament reconstruction surgery last October. Despite being cleared to return since February 6th, he has yet to be given a new televised feud or storyline.
He recently wrestled Dominik Dijakovic at WWE’s Worlds Collide event. He was also a participant in the Andre the Giant Battle Royal at WrestleMania 35.
Luke has been transparent about his frustrations within the company, highlighting that his goal going forward is to “continue to grow as a performer and person” outside of the remits of WWE.
WWE, however, declined his release request. Instead, the company has enforced a six-month extension, adding the time he missed working due to his initial injury. This means that, unless anything changes, Harper will be with WWE until roughly next year’s WrestleMania in April 2020.
This could be a tactical decision on WWE’s part—much in the same way as they handled Neville’s contract. Given the upcoming All Elite Wrestling and the surge of other independent promotions, it seems WWE are content with keeping Harper close for the time being.
