Drew McIntyre recently appeared on a WWE media call. During the call, McIntyre discussed his release from his WWE contract after his first stint with the company, why he wanted to go to NXT when he returned and more. Here are the highlights:

On The Difference Between Now & His First Run With The WWE:

What’s changed from my first stint is that I don’t take anything for granted,” stated McIntyre. “I’m a lot more mature and I don’t have negativity in my life. Partying isn’t as important to me anymore like it was when I was younger. I focus very much on the job and my goals and dreams.

They say opportunity is everything you’ve got. I didn’t realize that the first time around because I had lost perspective.

On Why He Wanted To Go To NXT Upon His Return:

I had a lot of conversations with Triple H and I made it clear if I come back, I would like to go to NXT,” admitted McIntyre.

You need those experienced leaders because that makes a difference in the product. NXT had lost a couple of people and I felt I could really make a difference going in there.

On Why He Doesn’t Think He’d Be As Successful Without His Time Away From NXT:

It would have been very hard to grow if I hadn’t stepped outside the WWE bubble and gain a clear perspective on everything. I was already comfortable talking but that wasn’t my strong suit.

I think I would have done okay but I don’t think I would be where I’m at. I certainly wouldn’t be as comfortable as I am now to get more opportunities.

Credit: WWE. H/T WrestlingInc.