WWE approves a time-off for “fan-favorite” Superstar, return timeline not clear at this point

The morale in the WWE locker room has been incredibly high ever since Triple H took over the reins of WWE. A happy talent staff nevertheless leads to a healthy backstage atmosphere. The creative head of WWE not only oversees the creative direction in WWE, but he also ensures that the talents get some respite from their hectic schedule. Speaking of which, the company has reportedly approved time off for Sami Zayn.

According to the latest report from Dave Meltzer of WON, the Raw superstar has been granted some time off from WWE television. However, the timeline of his sabbatical is unknown. Following their opening match on Raw last week, Drew McIntyre brutally attacked the superstar in a backstage segment.

The Scottish Warrior mercilessly targeted the bad knee (kayfabe) of Zayn, writing him off television in the process. As the specifics regarding his return date remain unclear, the superstar’s creative plans for the upcoming Royal Rumble are up in the air. Meltzer also noted that the 39-year-old himself requested time off from weekly programming.

I don’t have it confirmed Zayn will be off for a while due to that, but do know that he had asked for time off recently and was granted it but wasn’t told when that would begin past he was not scheduled for 12/28 show in Laval, Quebec.

Dave Meltzer about Sami Zayn’s apparent time-off

Sami Zayn has been a fixture in WWE programming since the superstar was injected into the Bloodline storyline. The superstar shot into massive popularity after breaking away from the villainous stable. His acrimonious feud with the Bloodline elevated him to the status of a top babyface in WWE. In the same year, he and Kevin Owens defeated The Usos to capture the Undisputed Tag Team Championship at WrestleMania 39.

Kevin Owens has major praise for his long-time best friend Sami Zayn

The deep friendship between Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn dates back to the days when they were wrestling under the ring names Kevin Steen and El Generico. The two exceptionally talented wrestlers crossed paths in 2003. After which, they spent over a decade together in the indie scene until they made it to WWE.

While speaking in a recent interview with James Williams, the Prizefighter heaped major praise on his former tag-team partner. Owens stated that Zayn brings out the best in him both as a partner and an opponent. Furthermore, he added that the 39-year-old is the best wrestler he has ever shared a ring with.

As far as the athletic side goes, he can do it all. From a performance standpoint, from the intensity, the passion he brings, and the connection he has with the audience, very few people have it all like he does.

Kevin Owens about Sami Zayn

In addition to that, K.O. exalted Sami Zayn’s athleticism and in-ring performance. He also highlighted the latter’s sheer passion and intensity in his character work. Interestingly, Owens hailed his best friend while taking subtle shots at CM Punk. Moreover, the two men reached the zenith of their respective careers when they headlined night one of WrestleMania 39.

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