Darren Young, now known as Fred Rosser, announced that he has returned to WWE nine years after his release. He is back in WWE NXT, where he has started working with young talent at the Performance Center.
Rosser wrote on X on Thursday that he has been going to WWE’s facility and gets emotional every time he walks in. He now gets to see up close what WWE looks for in new talent, from a different perspective than the one he had as a wrestler.
“Nine years ago today, I was released from WWE,” Rosser wrote. “Today, I’m back at WWE NXT, fighting back tears of joy every time I pull up to the Performance Center and grateful for the opportunity to give back to the next generation. I’m always hearing what WWE is looking for NOW I’m able to see it for myself and be a sponge in this environment.”
Rosser continued:
“I once stood in this environment, beating on my craft alongside incredible coaches, and quickly made my way to the main roster. Now, I’m back sharing those experiences and helping shape the future.”
Rosser ended the post by bringing up the original NXT and his old catchphrase.
“And when you talk about NXT, don’t forget the ORIGINAL NXT!” he wrote. “MR. NO DAYS OFF baby! Nine years later, still standing, still inspiring, and STILL NO DAYS OFF! WWE, thank you for the opportunity. You know what time it is? IT’S TIME TO GO TO WORK!”
Rosser picked the anniversary of his release for the post. WWE announced his release on October 29, 2017, along with those of Emma and Summer Rae.
Rosser was part of the first season of NXT in 2010, while the show was still a competition. He later joined Nexus and won the WWE Tag Team Championship with Titus O’Neil as the Prime Time Players in 2015.
In June 2022, Rosser brought up the idea of becoming a coach. In an interview with Comedy Store Wrestling, Rosser said Norman Smiley asked him during WrestleMania 38 weekend if he would consider coming back to the Performance Center in that role. Rosser was interested, but he still had plans as an active wrestler.
In May 2025, Rosser told Pro Wrestling Culture that he would be ready if he got a call from WWE.
Rosser had worked as a trainer before the return. In February, he revealed on Radican Worldwide that he was training Steven Borden, Sting’s son, at the NJPW Academy in Los Angeles.