Returning Star Just Brought Best Part of AEW Run to WWE

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Last week on Monday Night Raw, Rusev marked his triumphant comeback to the WWE, following WrestleMania 41. In his return, Rusev defeated Alpha Academy and gave New Day a fright, but fans had to wait until tonight for Rusev to explain his reasons for coming back. WWE presented a video recap of Rusev’s journey since leaving the company, highlighting the alterations in his return. Although he didn’t explicitly mention AEW, it’s evident that Rusev’s iconic Redeemer persona from AEW has found its way into the WWE, and for now, it appears that Lana is not part of the picture.

Rusev received an exceptional introductory video showcasing his new character, and it didn’t hesitate to bring up his past experiences with WWE. During a promo, Rusev discusses his triumph at WrestleMania and holding everything, but admits that on the way back to Bulgaria, he encountered a downfall – referring to the period after he left the WWE.

He subtly discusses his past with AEW, stating that he managed to “atone” for his actions before revealing a noble purpose aimed at helping WWE performers who aren’t being fully utilized confront their shortcomings and personal issues to “improve themselves.” Rusev also mentions that he no longer fights for someone else’s love or a flag without significance, which is another reference to his time in AEW when he introduced The Redeemer. At this point, CJ Perry was not yet part of AEW or associated with his character, as he was simply a destructive force on his own.

It appears we’re witnessing a 2.0 transformation for The Redeemer, who now seems to be operating independently, much like Rusev, with a straightforward motive driving him instead of the managerial or national allegiances that fueled his previous WWE career. Whether this evolves over time remains to be seen, but you can catch a snippet of his promo below, and the full video is available above for your viewing pleasure.

In a past time, I possessed wealth, recognition, and a historic match at WrestleMania. However, I lost my identity. I departed from the WWE, and during my journey back to Bulgaria, I descended into darkness. It was in this darkness that I rediscovered myself, healed myself, forgave myself, and mended myself. In this underworld, I understood that I would no longer battle for a lover who wasn’t mine or a banner that never truly represented me. I had an enlightening moment, realizing my newfound freedom to subdue others not due to orders but from my own desire. Now, I intend to employ my hands and muscular physique for the greater good. I will track down charlatans, arrogant individuals, and those who squander their abilities as I once did. Through suffering, I aim to refine them all…for the better.

Next Monday on Raw, Rusev is set to square off against Otis of Alpha Academy, marking his first match since rejoining WWE. This follows his impressive debut where he defeated both Akira Tozawa and Otis. As for the future, it remains to be seen what challenges lie ahead for Rusev, but it’s possible that Tozawa and Otis might soon find themselves on the losing end against him.

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2025-04-29 06:09