Unfortunately for WWE fans and Wyatt, the Mountain Dew Pitch Black match would mark Wyatt’s last televised in-ring appearance as he unexpectedly died in August 2023 at the age of 36.

In retrospect, Knight now considers that match and the aftermath weird things to think about. At the same time, Knight remains grateful for the “unique experience” of working with Wyatt in WWE.

“You’ve got the challenge of this very unique character, but then also it was my first real foray on the SmackDown television, on a WWE television on that main roster scale where it’s like, okay, I’m gonna make my mark here while at the same time serving this return to Bray. It was a hell of an experience,” he said. “I’d have to credit that with putting me on the map at this point.”

In the weeks following their Royal Rumble spectacle, Knight and Wyatt extended their rivalry to WWE live events and untelevised matches after “SmackDown” broadcasts. This included a series of additional Pitch Black matches and Lights Out Street Fights. Eventually, both Wyatt and Knight began new programs heading into WrestleMania 39, though in Wyatt’s case it was cut short due to his abrupt absence from television. Knight competed in the Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal on the “SmackDown” before the big event.

If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit Esteban Ramirez with a h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.