Benjamin has suffered a torn rotator cuff and will not be returning as soon as expected.
If you watched WWE “SmackDown!” a couple of weeks back, you saw the surprising video hyping the return of Shelton Benjamin for the Tuesday night program. Well that return has already hit a massive roadblock. He took to Twitter on Sunday morning to reveal he has a torn rotator cuff and will be having surgery.
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.
— 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.
— Shelton J. Benjamin (@Sheltyb803) August 7, 2016
This comes as a shock to me as i am no stranger to performing while in pain yet I had no idea of the severity of my condition
— 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
— Shelton J. Benjamin (@Sheltyb803) August 7, 2016
For now I must refocus my energy on repairing my body and mind.
— Shelton J. Benjamin (@Sheltyb803) August 7, 2016
This a potential huge blow for both Shelton as well as WWE. The former Intercontinental and World Tag Team Champion is one of the most athletically gifted superstars on the planet, and he was especially excited to return to the company. The recent brand split would’ve given him a whole new line of opponents to showcase his talents.
All talents that are signed by WWE must go through a medical screening to ensure they are capable of performing at the level management as well as even fans expect. This injury was likely discovered during a recent physical, as part of his rehiring process. A torn rotator cuff can put a superstar on the shelf for a period of 4-6 months. That said, Shelton could be sidelined until around January’s “Royal” Rumble” event.
Shelton is a very accomplished collegiate wrestler, having been on the University of Minnesota wrestling team alongside current WWE star Brock Lesnar. He was a highlight-reel addition to the Money In The Bank matches, always displaying his high-flying capabilities and ability to bring the fans to their feet with his unique style.