Reason Behind Carlito's Delayed WWE Return Despite Signing A Deal

WWE star Carlito is yet to make his return to the programming despite signing a deal in July. A report has emerged regarding his status.

Carlito previously had a stint with WWE from 2003-2010. He held the WWE United States and Intercontinental titles, as well as both the WWE and World Tag Team Championships.

Carlito made his surprise appearance at WWE Backlash in early May this year. He returned with WWE legend Savio Vega as Carlito helped the Grammy-winner Bad Bunny defeat The Judgment Day's Damian Priest in a San Juan Street Fight.

It was speculated that he might be back soon. Carlito had informed Great North Wrestling EVP Jack Kilby that he would not be available for their show on July 16 due to re-signing with WWE. He had also stated that it would have been a violation of his WWE contract to appear at the event in Smiths Falls, Ontario, and returned his deposit for the show.

Eventually, reports confirmed that the second-generation star has signed a new deal with WWE. Carlito had initially said he was "open to whatever" following the surprise appearance, and was later spotted in Orlando, Florida, reportedly there to speak with WWE. However, he hasn't made an appearance following that.

On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer noted that Carlito is believed to be signed to WWE after withdrawing from independent bookings. However, he added that the company hasn't figured creative ideas for him. He said:

“Yeah, He signed at the start of July. He pulled off all his Indies, so he must have signed, and they were ready to start. He had a start date. He went. He was there. They couldn’t figure out what to do with him. And they still haven’t figured out what to do with him.”

We will have to wait and see when he makes his return.