WrestleMania season typically brings about a lot of surprises in the WWE and news broke of one on Wednesday, April 2. According to PWInsider, Rusev has re-signed with the company and is set to return.
Mike Johnson of PWInsider reported the news Wednesday afternoon.
“PWInsider.com has confirmed with multiple sources that Rusev has been at the WWE HQ in Stamford, CT all day and was spotted by multiple sources. According to those we’ve spoken with today, Rusev has signed with the company and was at HQ today to set the stage for his return.”
Rusev was last seen in a ring at QPW Super Slam III where Alberto del Rio defeated him, however it has been nearly two years since he’s been seen in a major promotion. His last match in AEW was at Worlds End 2023 where he defeated Andrade, who also returned to WWE since.
Rusev’s return creates an apprehensive optimism
Rusev was and is a fan favorite to many across professional wrestling. However, he’s far ways off from when he was at his height of popularity in either WWE or AEW. WWE has a roster that is more stacked today than it was back in 2020 when he last appeared for the company. It also has a different creative direction where big returns may not get the immediate push some expect.
There are some interesting angles for his future. Think about a feud between Rusev and Bron Breakker. A battle between Rusev and GUNTHER. Rusev versus Oba Femi for the NXT Championship maybe? There are a lot of different ways things could go, and fans will be intrigued by many of them.
No timetable is set for Rusev’s return. With things heading toward WrestleMania 41 in full swing, it would make sense for him to appear during the Monday Night Raw or SmackDown after the PLE. Either way, fans will be ready to chant “Rusev Day” once again, and only time will tell if this move plays into a bigger run for his career.