Although it was announced in April of 2014 that he had signed a multi-year deal to remain with the company, back in June it was revealed that Gunner would be leaving TNA and trying his hand on the independent scene. At 33-years-old, not to mention his past affiliation with the Impact Wrestling brand, it's been safe to assume WWE would stay away.
That may no longer be the case.
During an interview with Channel Guide Mag, Gunner makes clear his want to work to make his way to WWE and even says there are some talks going on:
"Wrestling is my number one love since I was a kid," he said. "It's what I always wanted to do. Ever since I was five I dreamed for that WrestleMania moment or wrestling some of the top guys on Monday nights. I definitely want to pursue WWE. There are some talks going on. I hope it comes to pass, so we'll see. When it comes to the independent scene, it's been awesome. That is where I came from.
"I started in 2001 and wrestled even while in the Marine Corps when I wasn't deployed. The scene is so huge now with good independent products out there. There are so many good ones in the Carolinas, Georgia, South Carolina, Texas and even the United Kingdom. It's kind of like territories now. Years ago when I started there were small shows here and there, but it's now a booming business. When you watch the NXT product they are bringing in so many guys to do matches and shows. It shows there is a lot of good talent out there. I love it. I have a great time. It's a chance to work out there and tell a story in the ring."
The main roster, despite its lack of major stars, is relatively deep. That said, there may be some room for Gunner to help develop some young guns down in NXT, no?