Keith Lee made his AEW debut on the February 9 episode of AEW Dynamite as he was the mystery opponent for Isiah Kassidy in a Face of the Revolution qualifying bout.
Lee was released by WWE on November 4 despite being part of WWE Raw as "Bearcat" Keith Lee.
Speaking to Busted Open Radio, Lee reflected on his AEW debut.
"That first debut was something that was almost overwhelming because, there was a certain amount of freedom that came with it, and also a reality that, regardless of things going on, I'm truly back and available to do what I enjoy. The reality is, we can say I'm now a professional wrestler, but the reality is, I've always been a professional wrestler. I was never some chosen guy...I've always earned my way in any organization I've ever been a part of. That's probably the most exciting prospect for me, earning my way to an AEW World Championship," he said.
Busted Open co-host and AEW talent Mark Henry mentioned that he was looking forward to bringing Lee into different ventures within the community and getting him back in his home state of Texas.
"My last foray and the return to Dallas was such a weird experience for me, and not because of the fans, the fans are always fantastic. As a matter of fact, when I debuted for AEW, I had forgotten what it was like to hear them when they recognized it was me. Those are the moments I look forward to, the excitement of the people and what they bring. Being in your home state is something very special. I'm looking forward to all those returns, the new battles, the opportunities and earning my way through things and rebuilding a brand...I don't feel like it's broken or busted...I feel like it was somewhat marred and putting that stamp down of dark, bold ink of 'this is who Keith Lee is,'" said Lee.
Lee was off WWE television from February 2021 to July 2021 as he dealt with health issues relating to COVID. He returned on WWE Raw in Dallas, Texas, losing to WWE Champion Bobby Lashley in less than six minutes.
You can find Lee's comments on his health issues by clicking here.
Lee is set to compete in the Face of the Revolution ladder match at AEW Revolution. You can view the current lineup for the event by clicking here.
If you use any of the quotes above, please credit the original source with a h/t and link back to Fightful for the transcription.
