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By Andrew Ravens
Contributing Sports Writer
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A recently released WWE NXT star has made his return to the independent wrestling scene. Eddy Thorpe, now once again performing under his Karl Fredericks name, appeared at a major event this past weekend and cut a passionate promo about his future.
Fredericks was one of several talents released from their WWE contracts on May 2, 2025. He made his return on Saturday, July 26, at the "DPW x Prestige x West Coast Pro Cruel Summer" event in San Francisco, California.
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An Independent Return After WWE Run
During his appearance, Fredericks confirmed he is back on the independent scene and said that he has "regained his love of pro-wrestling." He then made a pointed comment that was a clear reference to his time in WWE's developmental system.
He referenced the "cowboy" sitting in Orlando, a clear shot at NXT's head of creative, Shawn Michaels. He then added that he is "not their Indian," a direct criticism of the Eddy Thorpe character, which was heavily based on his Native American heritage.
The Eddy Thorpe Experience
During his run in NXT, Fredericks, as Eddy Thorpe, was given a character that leaned into his heritage. He had previously been critical of the gimmick, stating in interviews that he felt it lacked depth and that he had pitched other ideas, such as a character obsessed with winning the North American Championship.
While he was featured in high-profile spots, including an "NXT Underground" match against Damon Kemp, it's now clear that he was not creatively fulfilled with the direction. His promo on Saturday was a declaration of his intent to return to a more authentic version of himself.
More news: WWE Superstar Announces Retirement Match
The "Alpha Wolf" Of The LA Dojo
Before signing with WWE in January 2023, Karl Fredericks was a highly-touted prospect from the New Japan Pro-Wrestling LA Dojo. As one of the first graduates of the system under the tutelage of the legendary Katsuyori Shibata, Fredericks was known as the "Alpha Wolf." He was a no-nonsense, hard-hitting performer with a strong-style approach that made him a standout in NJPW STRONG.
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This tough, athletic persona is what many fans were excited to see when he signed with WWE. His recent comments suggest he is looking to return to that style on the independent circuit, free from the creative constraints he felt in NXT. After his WWE release, Fredericks had stated he was in "vacation mode," but it appears that vacation is now over.
More WWE News:
- Released WWE Superstar Retires From Pro Wrestling
- Released WWE Star Breaks Silence On Departure
- Released WWE Star Wants To Join AEW
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