WWE Rumors on Rey Fenix Contract, Wyatt Sicks' Uncle Howdy and Kiana James Absence

Bleacher Report catches you up on the latest news from the WWE Universe.

WWE Officially Signs Former AEW Superstar Rey Fenix

After months of rumors and speculation, WWE has added another former AEW talent to its roster.

Fightful's Sean Ross Sapp confirmed a report from Fightful Español that Rey Fenix is "under contract with WWE" (h/t Steve Carrier of Ringside News). A report from WrestleVotes added that creative pitches are already being made for Fenix, and WWE is already working on merchandise for him.

Fenix had been expected to join WWE for quite some time, but he was shelved by AEW president Tony Khan for several months after his contract was extended due to injury time. The company eventually acquiesced and released him earlier this month, after Fenix reportedly made "vague allegations about inhumane treatment" that were never addressed publicly.

WWE appears to be gearing up for Fenix to debut on SmackDown, with recent mysterious promos bearing his likeness on Friday's show.

Fenix's Lucha Bros tag team partner and real-life brother, Penta, debuted for WWE earlier this year and is thriving on Monday Night Raw. He recently declared his intentions to pursue a match against Intercontinental Champion Bron Breakker at WrestleMania 41.

All signs point to Fenix having the chance to skyrocket as well when he debuts in WWE this year.

Uncle Howdy Cleared, Wyatt Sicks' Return Being Discussed

It sounds like the Wyatt Sicks faction is getting closer to making a comeback after a positive update regarding its leader, Uncle Howdy, also known as Bo Dallas.

Fightful Select reported (h/t Steve Carrier of Ringside News) that Uncle Howdy has been "cleared" for an in-ring return after being sidelined due to an undisclosed issue, so the return of the Wyatt Sicks could be imminent. The report stated that "there have been creative discussions regarding the return of the group," and WWE is "waiting until the time is right."

The faction, dedicated to Dallas' late brother Bray Wyatt, indicated that it was getting back to action soon with an ominous tweet on Thursday night:

The Wyatt Sicks last made an appearance in December. Creative plans reportedly required all members of the group to be present, so the faction was shelved until Uncle Howdy was cleared.

The group's return could also breathe new life into Alexa Bliss, who hasn't been seen since the Elimination Chamber premium live event. It was noted that Bliss was sidelined while waiting for the Wyatt Sicks' creative reboot, and now it appears that their rumored storyline could be moving forward soon.

Reason Revealed for Kiana James' Prolonged Absence

After being drafted to Monday Night Raw last year, many expected big things from Kiana James, but she's been noticeably absent for quite some time.

James hasn't competed in WWE since June, and Mike Johnson of PWInsider was recently asked about her status during a Q&A. Johnson stated (h/t Subhojeet Mukherjee of Ringside News) that James was placed on WWE's injured list around the time of her last appearance, with the belief that she underwent knee surgery.

It was previously reported that James' recovery would take six months, but she's remained sidelined beyond that. The former NXT Women's Tag Team Champion showed promise during her time on the developmental brand, and many were excited to see what she'd do on the main roster.

During her time away from the ring, James has remained active on social media. Last year, she posted a video where she was walking the runway for renowned couture designer David Alan, who is also the stylist for WWE legend John Cena.

It's still unclear when James will be able to return to action, but there's now more clarity on her lengthy hiatus.