5 former Superstars who could return to WWE this year

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There had been rumours that both Mysterio and Del Rio were on their way back to WWE

Well, for the past month, rumours were rife that Rey Mysterio was on his way back to WWE after a one-off Royal Rumble appearance back in January saw the former WWE Champion receive a rapturous ovation.

A torn bicep sadly sidelined those ideas, but it still seemed more likely than not until last night when news broke that the veteran has in fact signed for Aro Lucha where he will not only be a performer, but also a co-owner of the start-up company from Tennessee which will have its own television show.

So, it looks like Rey Mysterio won't be returning to WWE within the next year, but who will? We look at five likely options...

Oh, and spoiler, there's no CM Punk on this list. There's also no Cody Rhodes or Austin Aries because I would think they will not return to WWE in the immediate future due to enjoying life on the indies so much.

One other big name is missing, too, and that's Bobby Lashley, amidst talk that he has actually signed with WWE - although that's yet to be confirmed by either party.


#5 Hurricane

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Hurricane also returned at the Royal Rumble

What better way to start the list than with another Superstar who returned at the Royal Rumble this year to an absolutely thunderous ovation.

While the two-time Cruiserweight Champion only had a cameo appearance, it was an incredible one as he recalled his attempted Chokeslam on Triple H and Stone Cold Steve Austin, this time targeting John Cena.

While it was only a cameo, Hurricane continues to wrestle across the globe and has teased a return to WWE in the future.

I’m booked solid. I’ve already got 43 dates in 2018 that I’ve agreed with various companies all over the world, so this is a pretty exciting time.

In fact, while looking back on his recent return, Helms even said he thinks he'll be back.

If that was my last time in a WWE ring, and I don’t think it will be,to have probably the loudest pop of my career, what a way to come full circle.

One thing is for sure, if the Royal Rumble was anything to go by, Hurricane would be welcomed back with open arms.

#4 Rob Van Dam

RVD is stil
RVD is still wrestling, albeit on a slightly less frantic schedule

Well, he may be 47 years old, but you'd never think it if you've seen him in the ring. Years of yoga and stretching have kept RVD in prime shape and the Whole Damn Show can still put on quite the show in the ring.

In fact, the former WWE Champion has even said that, while he wouldn't be keen on returning on a full-time basis - like Mysterio - he would definitely consider a return to WWE if the money was right and the idea for a final run were both right.

The main stumbling block here would likely be WWE wanting a big commitment and Van Dam not wanting to work such a frenetic schedule.

The ECW legend had a short, not incredibly memorable stint in WWE in 2014, but if used correctly, he could provide a huge boost to either Raw or SmackDown.

#3 Alberto Del Rio

Enter captiVince McMahon thinks he can bring back Alberto Del Rio
Alberto Del Rio may be on his way back to WWE

While rumours had been rife of a Del Rio return recently, those seem to have slightly cooled - although Rey Mysterio seemingly ruling out a return by signing for another promotion may indeed urge WWE to step up their plans, if they have any, to sign this former WWE Champion.

Both of Del Rio's stints with WWE have ended in controversy, being fired first time round for slapping a backstage employee who allegedly made a racist comment and then leaving the company rather than sitting out a suspension for a wellness policy violation, but Vince McMahon is said to be a big fan of the former United States Champion.

Del Rio, now known as Alberto El Patron, has even visited WWE headquarters recently and it seems like he could be on his way back on a permanent basis later this year.

#2 Batista

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Batista has been vocal about a comeback

Well, it's rather baffling that this one hasn't happened. WWE loves big stars, Batista is one of the biggest stars on the planet after his Guardians of the Galaxy and Spectre roles, Batista WANTS to go back. How has it not come to fruition?!

It was revealed yesterday that Batista has refused a Hall of Fame induction as he does not feel that his in-ring career is over. Batista had said that the reason hasn't happened yet was due to a "schedule issue" and a "creative issue" but that he "would love to go back" - even saying he would love another full-time run. The prospect of a retirement match with Triple H could also appeal to him.

With Batista featuring in a plethora of movies this year, including Avengers: Infinity War, I'd like to think it's only a matter of time before The Animal returns.

#1 Chris Jericho

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It's the return of Jericho. Bring him back, maaaaaaaaaaaaaaaan!

Well, this one may seem like a no-brainer, and hopefully, it is.

Chris Jericho, you just made the list!

With Chris Jericho missing the Royal Rumble and WrestleMania this year, you'd really hope that Y2J will make his return to WWE later this year.

The stumbling block, Chris Jericho is a very busy man. Between releasing a twice-weekly podcast and touring with his rock band Fozzy, you could argue that WWE isn't exactly The Ayatolla of Rock 'n' Rolla's priority.

Many thought Jericho may actually stick with NJPW after he rocked the world of professional wrestling to its core after an incredible rivalry and match of the year contender with Kenny Omega, but Y2J has since said he is done with the company, and the nine-time Intercontinental Champion always seems to find his way back home.

So, will we see Y2J back in WWE in 2018? I certainly hope so.

It's the return of Jericho... Bring him back, maaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaan!


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