Tom Pestock’s WWE departure in 2024 was influenced by a single individual, according to the former Superstar. During an appearance on Busted Open Radio, Pestock, previously known as Baron Corbin, discussed his release.

“I believe there’s one person that made this decision or influenced this decision, and I think that’s what put me in the position I’m in now.”

Rather than being discouraged, the former U.S. Champion is using his release as motivation, stating he’s “not gonna let one person control me or my fate or my destiny.” Pestock vowed to demonstrate WWE’s error in releasing him, adding that “it’ll come back on them, whoever that person is.”

Pestock remains confident that his future accomplishments will make WWE regret their decision and potentially seek to bring him back. However, if a return does materialize, fans should expect a different persona entirely.

“Maybe that door will open again and they’ll say, ‘Hey man, come on back.’ But if they do, they’re not getting Baron Corbin. That man is dead. They’re getting Bishop Dyer.”

The emergence of Bishop Dyer represents a fresh start for Pestock following his 12-year tenure with WWE. Having already made his mark at GCW Bloodsport, Dyer is determined to show WWE—and one particular decision-maker—the magnitude of their mistake.