WWE star discloses reason he missed RAW; underwent surgery
This week's WWE RAW featured fallout from Money in the Bank last Saturday. However, that was not all the show was all about.
An interesting new development came when Sheamus and "Big" Bronson Reed ignited a rivalry. But the bigger picture came to light after the match as there was seemingly frustration between the Irishman and Reed's opponent of the night, Pete Dunne, who was formerly Butch.
Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate had formed New Catch Republic and found considerable success as a unit during Sheamus' hiatus. But before they could continue their ascent to the top of the tag team division, Bate got injured.
The 27-year-old gave details about his injury and how long he is expected to take time off on Instagram earlier today. Even though their run was only getting started in WWE, Bate is still in good spirits as he looks forward to making a comeback.
"Tore my left pectoral major & tendon off the bone last week at NXT," he wrote. "Surgery yesterday was successful and all has been put back where it belongs. I’ll be gone for some time while I recover, try not to miss me too much. I’m in good spirits and looking forward to seeing you all again soon, lots of love."
As for his tag team partner Pete Dunne, the latter has no interest in reforming The Brawling Brutes with Sheamus. Despite the former WWE Champion's good intentions, saving Dunne from Bronson Reed's post-match attack, the Englishman refused to celebrate with The Celtic Warrior and walked away.
What happened to The Brawling Brutes in WWE?
After Sheamus wrestled Adam 'Edge' Copeland in August 2023 on SmackDown, the Irish-born wrestler took some time off to heal up from injuries.
During his time off, Butch and Ridge Holland gradually grew apart. They wound up despising one another, with Holland ultimately moving to NXT. The latter is now part of the Chase University stable.
Meanwhile, Butch reverted to his previous persona Pete Dunne. He then formed a tag team with Tyler Bate. The duo contended for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship at Elimination Chamber: Perth and WrestleMania XL in February and April 2024, respectively. They were picked up by RAW in the 2024 Draft.
It remains to be seen if this is a short-term program or if WWE has something in mind for the long-term. In the last few weeks, Sheamus has opened the doors for several feuds, the most prominent of which coming against Ludwig Kaiser, while also with Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed. And now, there is this new angle with Pete Dunne.