The pro wrestling community happened to have one of the best couple of weeks. First John Cena made his return. This was followed by The Rock’s return on the most recent episode of SmackDown. As the fandom is enjoying this nostalgia trip, one former WWE star is set to make his return. But they will see the star on AEW.
Could this be the AEW president Tony Khan’s strategy to ride on the trend and get more viewership?
A former WWE champion channels his second wind to return to AEW
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AEW has announced that Rob Van Dam is set to make his return to the promotion. The 52-year-old star will mark his territory in next week’s episode of Collision. No news has emerged over a potential opponent for the high-flying superstar during the show. Moreover, the graphic mentioned, “Next Week, RVD returns to the ring in his home state.” RVD did make an appearance earlier on AEW and wrestling fans are hopeful he can replicate the impact he had on his first showing at AEW.
RVD will return to #AEW in his home state. Awesome! #AEWCollision pic.twitter.com/RYJ1qloOPd
— Tru Heel Heat Wrestling (@TruHeelHeat) September 17, 2023
Wrestling fans were treated to the prospect of the WWE legend going off against ‘Jungle Boy’ Jack Perry on August 9th. But unfortunately, he lost the bout. Since Jack Perry’s suspension from AEW, RVD finds himself without a potential opponent. Therefore, his next appearance could set things in motion for him going forward. Although one thing is for sure. After CM Punk’s departure, AEW needed another big name with their brand.
Furthermore, the Florida-based wrestling promotion has announced a new marquee PPV and Van Dam’s return adds glitter to an already prosperous occasion. The wrestling icon himself promised to not “hold back” going forward.
RVD teases mesmerizing involvement at AEW’s brand-new blockbuster PPV
Rob Van Dam teased his foray back into wrestling in his old playground earlier this year. The 52-year-old got a vociferous reaction from the WWE faithful as he announced the draft picks for the 2023 WWE Draft episode. It was not until his debut for AEW that he fully confirmed his reentry into wrestling.
Despite engaging in a losing bout, Van Dam proved his credentials as he showcased his talent yet again to wrestling fans. His impressive showing yielded multiple calls for his return to the promotion. And he has adhered to popular demand as he teased his return to AEW next week during their brand new PPV.
To everyone asking about my status yesterday, I wasn’t holding back. This is just how fast things happen sometimes. See you in Michigan! 🤘 https://t.co/VgYixxJF1L
— Rob Van Dam (@TherealRVD) September 17, 2023
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AEW has added another event called WrestleDream to its collection of prestige events. The confirmed fights of the evening include Bryan Danielson vs. Zack Sabre Jr. and Hangman Adam Page vs. Swerve Strickland. The Page vs. Strickland fight could be the main event, as the rivalry has been brewing for a very long time. AEW could borrow a card from WWE when they used John Cena to elevate a feud by making Van Dam get involved in proceedings.
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At the end of the day, it is all but speculation. Fans will have to wait for a week to know what purpose RVD will serve after returning to the ring. In what capacity do you think he would look to make an impact? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
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