Andrew Flintoff's Near Transition to WWE: A Look Back at 'Big Fred'

In a surprising revelation, former England cricketer Andrew Flintoff disclosed his near transition from cricket to professional wrestling, specifically with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). Flintoff, known for his pivotal role in the Ashes series, shared this experience during an interview on the Betfair Stick to Cricket podcast on July 1, 2025. The series of events that led to this unexpected career pivot began after Flintoff's premature retirement from cricket at the age of 31, a decision that left him feeling unmoored and questioning his future in sports.

"I fell out of love with cricket. I genuinely thought my best years were ahead of me at 31. Especially as a bowler, I was bowling quicker, my batting was coming back, and I was thinking the next three years are my years, but I never got that," Flintoff reflected. After relocating with his family to Dubai with hopes of joining the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Big Bash League (BBL), Flintoff found himself pondering his next steps.

Seeking new opportunities, Flintoff recalled his childhood admiration for WWE and developed a bold idea to face off against the legendary Undertaker in Manchester. "I wrote this treatment up and presented the idea to Sky… next minute it's being passed onto WWE. I was in contact with the WWE, Vince McMahon!" This venture propelled him into rigorous training at WWE's academy in Tampa, Florida, where he endured intense physical drills, often pushing his body to the limit.

Flintoff underwent two weeks of grueling training, which included three-hour sessions in the ring. He described the physical toll of the training, stating, "They put me in the ring for three hours and I just ran the ropes; I'd run into someone and they'd throw me." Despite the pain he experienced, Flintoff found himself thriving in acting classes during this training, showcasing his ability to engage with the theatrical aspects of wrestling.

Eventually, WWE offered Flintoff a three-year contract with a promise to fast-track him to major events like WrestleMania and the Royal Rumble. However, despite the lucrative offer, Flintoff ultimately decided to walk away from the opportunity. He cited family considerations as a significant factor in his decision, expressing that his children preferred returning home to England and continuing their involvement in cricket rather than relocating to the United States for wrestling.

Flintoff's decision to decline the WWE contract underscores the complexities athletes face when navigating career transitions. The financial allure of professional wrestling, described by Flintoff as having "obscene" monetary benefits, was not enough to sway his commitment to family and cricket. Reflecting on his journey, Flintoff remarked, "It's a what-if the world will have to live with."

This narrative not only highlights Flintoff's multifaceted career but also raises questions about the paths athletes choose following retirement from their primary sports. As he continues to explore various ventures, including boxing and television, Flintoff's story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional sports careers and the personal considerations that shape them.

In conclusion, while Flintoff's potential wrestling debut as 'Big Fred' never materialized, his experiences offer insight into the challenges and opportunities faced by athletes in today's dynamic sports landscape. As he continues to engage with audiences through different platforms, Flintoff's legacy in both cricket and entertainment remains significant, illustrating the diverse avenues available to former athletes.