In early 2008, Fertig made his return to Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), and began wrestling under his real name. He competed against wrestlers including Pat Buck, J.D. Michaels, and Kofi Kingston. In mid-2008, Fertig moved to the new developmental territory, Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW), and reverted to the Kevin Thorn name. His first match in FCW was on May 3, when he defeated Afa Jr. in a Street Fight. On May 6, he teamed up with Atlas DaBone to defeat Afa, Jr. and "The Upgrade" Tyrone Jones. His first loss in FCW was on June 3, when he was defeated by Shawn Spears, following a distraction from Sinn Bowdee.