WWE: Top 10 Surprising Returns of 2023 (So Far)

The year 2023 has witnessed some remarkable comebacks from WWE's biggest stars. From part-timers to retired wrestlers, here are the top 10 most surprising returns in 2023 so far:

   

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The Undertaker's Surprise Appearance: The Undertaker made an unexpected comeback at the 2023 Royal Rumble, entering at number 29 and lasting over 20 minutes before being eliminated by AJ Styles. It was an unforgettable moment as he made his long-awaited return to WWE after WrestleMania 36 in 2020. The crowd erupted with excitement, making it one of the standout moments of the night.

John Cena: At WrestleMania 39, Austin Theory shocked the world by defeating John Cena to retain the United States Championship on Night 1 of the event, held on April 1, 2023, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.  Despite Cena's illustrious career as a 16-time world champion, Theory's recent rise showcased his potential as a legitimate contender for the United States Championship.

Cody Rhodes's Sensational Return: Cody Rhodes made a surprise comeback at the 2023 Royal Rumble, entering as the 30th participant and emerging as the last man standing by eliminating Logan Paul. His return created a massive buzz, considering his departure from WWE in 2016 to establish All Elite Wrestling. The crowd's overwhelming reaction was a testament to the impact of his comeback.

Trish Stratus's Remarkable Return: Trish Stratus's active return to WWE in 2023 has been a pleasant surprise. Despite her age of 47, this legendary champion and Hall of Famer continues to showcase her remarkable skills and demonstrate why she remains a valuable asset to the company.

Shane McMahon's Comeback: Shane McMahon made his return to WWE at the 2023 Royal Rumble as the 28th participant. He put up a strong fight, lasting over 15 minutes in the match before ultimately being eliminated by the powerful Brock Lesnar. The WWE fans had a mixed reaction when McMahon stepped back into the ring for the first time since WrestleMania 37 in 2022. Some cheered in excitement, while others voiced their discontent with boos.

Booker T's Unexpected Appearance: Booker T made a surprise return at the 2023 Royal Rumble as the 23rd entrant, lasting over 10 minutes before being eliminated by Brock Lesnar. Although he made a few appearances on Raw and SmackDown following his return, he has been absent from WWE since then, leaving fans eagerly awaiting his next appearance.

Asuka's Dominant Display: Asuka entered the 2023 Royal Rumble at number 30 and remarkably eliminated seven wrestlers, including Logan Paul. Her performance set a record for the most eliminations by a wrestler entering at number 30.

Matt Riddle's Comeback: Matt Riddle made his return to WWE at the 2023 Royal Rumble, entering as the 10th participant and lasting over 15 minutes before being eliminated by Roman Reigns.

Chelsea Green's Surprise Return: Chelsea Green made a surprising return at the 2023 Royal Rumble as the 25th participant. She lasted over 5 minutes before being eliminated by Bianca Belair. Similarly, she graced us with her presence on several episodes of Raw and SmackDown after her return but has not been seen in WWE since. Fans are curious about her future appearances and role in the company.

Carlito's WWE Homecoming: Carlito returned to WWE at the 2023 Royal Rumble as the 15th entrant, lasting over 10 minutes before being eliminated by Brock Lesnar.  Like Booker T, Carlito also made appearances on Raw and SmackDown, but has not been seen in WWE since.

We want to hear from you, our valued blog readers! Which return in 2023 left you most thrilled and excited? Whether it was a legendary icon making a triumphant comeback or a beloved fan favorite surprising us all, we want to know who captured your heart and had you jumping out of your seat with joy. We want to hear your thoughts and have you join the conversation! Share your opinions, insights, and engage with fellow wrestling enthusiasts!

Note: All references to WWE, its events, wrestlers, images and trademarks are the sole property of WWE. We acknowledge and credit WWE for their ownership and involvement in the mentioned events and returns.