Biggest WWE Returns That Shocked Fans (Ranked 25 to 1)

25.⁠ ⁠The Hardy Boyz – WrestleMania 33 (2017)

Matt and Jeff Hardy made a sensational return to WWE at WrestleMania 33 during the Raw Tag Team Championship Ladder Match. The crowd erupted as the iconic duo entered, bringing a wave of nostalgia for fans who grew up watching their high-risk style. The Hardys immediately injected energy into the match, performing their signature high-flying moves and daredevil stunts. Their comeback revitalized WWE’s tag team division, leading to new rivalries and memorable matches. Fans chanted loudly for them, celebrating their long-awaited return. WWE showcased the Hardys’ ability to electrify the crowd even after years away. This moment is remembered as one of the most celebrated comebacks in modern tag team history.

24.⁠ ⁠Big Show – WrestleMania 32 (2016)

Big Show returned during the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal at WrestleMania 32, catching everyone by surprise. Fans erupted as he used his size and power to dominate the match, eliminating multiple competitors. Despite being away from storylines for several months, Big Show’s presence instantly elevated the stakes and excitement. His dominance reminded fans why he had been a top WWE star for decades. Every move, from chokeslams to corner smashes, drew massive reactions from the audience. WWE capitalized on the moment to showcase veteran talent in high-impact scenarios. His comeback reinforced Big Show’s legacy as a main-event caliber performer.

23.⁠ ⁠Lex Luger – SummerSlam (1993)

Lex Luger returned to challenge Yokozuna for the WWE Championship at SummerSlam 1993, surprising fans who had not seen him in months. His impressive physique and aggressive in-ring style made him an immediate threat. The audience reacted enthusiastically as Luger executed powerful moves that showcased his strength and skill. His comeback reinvigorated WWE’s summer programming and created anticipation for future matches. It also allowed Luger to interact with other top stars, setting up storylines that lasted weeks. Fans appreciated the dramatic surprise of his return. Luger’s comeback is considered a defining moment of early 1990s WWE.

22.⁠ ⁠Shawn Michaels – Raw (2002)

Shawn Michaels returned on the March 18, 2002 episode of Raw after a serious back injury kept him out of action. The crowd erupted as “Mr. WrestleMania” walked to the ring, his presence commanding the audience’s attention. Michaels quickly resumed high-profile matches and storylines, including confrontations with main-event talent like Triple H. Fans cheered his athleticism, charisma, and storytelling ability in the ring. His comeback energized the program and raised anticipation for upcoming pay-per-views. WWE capitalized on the excitement by positioning Michaels in major storylines. This return remains one of the most emotional and celebrated in WWE history.

21. Sean Waltman (X-Pac)- Raw (1998)

Sean Waltman returned as X-Pac on the March 30, 1998 episode of Raw, joining D-Generation X and surprising fans. His energetic style and agility instantly added momentum to the group, making DX even more dominant. The audience erupted as he executed quick, high-flying maneuvers, showcasing his in-ring skills. X-Pac’s comeback strengthened the mid-card and set up numerous memorable matches. Fans appreciated his charisma, and WWE used him to enhance DX storylines for months. His presence contributed significantly to the group’s popularity during the Attitude Era. This return remains one of the key moments in WWE history.

20. Ric Flair – Raw (2001)

Ric Flair returned on January 14, 2001, after months away from the spotlight. The crowd erupted with his iconic “Wooo!” chant as he entered, reaffirming his legendary status. Flair immediately engaged in high-profile feuds with Triple H and Chris Jericho, adding credibility to main-event storylines. Fans cheered his veteran presence and technical skill. WWE utilized his return to elevate both established stars and younger talent. Flair’s charisma and storytelling ability enhanced weekly Raw episodes. His comeback is considered one of the most significant in his long career.

19.⁠ ⁠Cactus Jack (Mick Foley) – Royal Rumble (2000)

Mick Foley returned as Cactus Jack during the 2000 Royal Rumble, shocking fans with his extreme, hardcore persona. He immediately targeted top superstars like Triple H, delivering chaotic, high-risk moves. The crowd erupted at his signature brutality and unpredictability. Foley’s return reminded fans of his legacy in hardcore wrestling. WWE capitalized on the excitement to inject intensity into the Rumble match. Cactus Jack’s comeback set up future storylines and feuds. This return remains one of the most memorable and shocking moments of the early 2000s.

18.⁠ ⁠Triple H – Raw (2002)

Triple H returned on January 7, 2002, after recovering from a quadriceps injury. Fans cheered loudly as he reentered the ring, immediately resuming main-event storylines. He reignited rivalries and elevated weekly Raw episodes with his intensity and charisma. The crowd responded enthusiastically to his in-ring performance. His return helped shape storylines that led into major pay-per-views. WWE used his comeback to create suspense and drama on television. This return cemented Triple H’s reputation as a top-tier performer.

17.⁠ ⁠John Cena – Royal Rumble (2008)

John Cena returned at the 2008 Royal Rumble after recovering from a torn pectoral injury. Entering at #30, he immediately shocked the crowd by winning the match. Fans erupted, chanting his name as he secured a WrestleMania championship opportunity. His comeback displayed resilience and reminded everyone why he was WWE’s top star. The return also set up future storylines, creating anticipation for WrestleMania XXIV. Cena’s energy and determination were met with loud chants from the crowd. This Rumble win remains one of the most memorable comeback moments in his career.

16.⁠ ⁠Stone Cold Steve Austin – Backlash (2000)

Steve Austin returned at Backlash 2000 after a short hiatus due to minor injuries. His sudden appearance disrupted the main event, shocking both the audience and the participants. Fans cheered his rebellious persona, chanting “Austin! Austin!” throughout the arena. His return immediately impacted storylines, reigniting feuds and adding chaos. WWE used Austin’s comeback to boost the intensity of weekly programming. The crowd’s reaction highlighted his enduring popularity. This return remains one of the most electrifying moments of the Attitude Era.

15.⁠ ⁠Brock Lesnar – Raw (2012)

Brock Lesnar returned on April 2, 2012, after almost eight years away from WWE. He attacked John Cena immediately, shocking fans and re-establishing his dominance. The crowd erupted at the sight of his raw power and aggression. Lesnar’s return reshaped storylines and elevated the intensity of weekly shows. WWE used this moment to set up future championship feuds. Fans appreciated the unpredictability he brought back to the ring. This comeback is considered one of the most impactful in modern WWE history.

14.⁠ ⁠The Undertaker – SummerSlam (1994)

The Undertaker returned at SummerSlam 1994 after a short hiatus, facing Vader in a highly anticipated match. Fans erupted as the “Deadman” reasserted his dominance and signature aura in the ring. His presence immediately elevated the event, reminding everyone why he was one of WWE’s most feared and respected superstars. Undertaker executed his signature moves with precision, thrilling the crowd. This return allowed him to continue building his legendary streak and engage in memorable rivalries. WWE used the moment to create drama and suspense throughout the card. The comeback is remembered as a defining moment of early 90s WWE.

13.⁠ ⁠The Rock – WrestleMania 27 (2011)

The Rock returned as the guest host of WrestleMania 27, surprising fans with his charisma and presence. His promos immediately captivated the crowd, drawing loud cheers and chants. He interacted with top superstars, adding energy to key segments of the show. The audience reacted to every line, showing their excitement and nostalgia. WWE used his return to boost ratings and create buzz for the event. The Rock’s appearance reminded fans of his legendary ability to entertain both in and out of the ring. This return is considered one of the most memorable surprise appearances in WWE history.

12.⁠ ⁠Edge – Royal Rumble (2020)

Edge returned from a nine-year retirement due to a career-threatening neck injury during the 2020 Royal Rumble. Entering at #21, he eliminated several superstars and delivered his iconic Spear, electrifying the WWE Universe. Fans erupted in disbelief and joy, celebrating the long-awaited return. His appearance instantly thrust him into major storylines and feuds, including a renewed rivalry with Randy Orton. WWE capitalized on the emotional impact of the comeback, using it to heighten anticipation for WrestleMania. Edge’s in-ring performance proved he still had top-tier athleticism. This return is widely regarded as one of the most shocking and memorable in modern WWE.

11.⁠ ⁠John Cena – WrestleMania 31 (2015)

John Cena made a surprise appearance during the United States Championship match against Rusev at WrestleMania 31. His unexpected entry immediately changed the dynamics of the match, thrilling fans worldwide. The audience erupted, chanting Cena’s name in appreciation of his resilience and energy. This comeback allowed Cena to reassert his dominance and further storylines heading into future WWE events. Fans were excited to see him take part in high-stakes matches again. WWE leveraged this moment to create tension and drama within the show. Cena’s return remains a highlight of WrestleMania 31.

10. The Rock - Bad Blood (2024)

On October 5, 2024, The Rock made a dramatic return at WWE Bad Blood, reintroducing himself as “The Final Boss.” After Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes triumphed over Solo Sikoa and Jacob Fatu, The Rock appeared at the entrance ramp, silently counting to three and making a throat-slash gesture, signaling his readiness to shake up WWE’s power dynamics. This enigmatic return set the stage for future confrontations, including a notable encounter with Rhodes at the Elimination Chamber in March 2025. The Rock’s reemergence left fans buzzing, eager to see how his storyline would evolve in the coming months.

9.⁠ ⁠CM Punk – Survivor Series (2023)

CM Punk returned to WWE at Survivor Series 2023 after a nine-year absence, immediately shocking the WWE Universe. Fans erupted with one of the loudest ovations of the night, chanting his name nonstop. Punk’s sudden re-entry quickly impacted storylines and rivalries, creating new directions for programming. His charisma, mic skills, and in-ring ability reminded fans why he was one of WWE’s most influential stars. WWE capitalized on the dramatic effect of the return to boost audience engagement. This comeback was both emotional and highly entertaining, leaving fans talking for months. CM Punk’s return remains one of the most memorable moments of recent WWE history.

8.⁠ ⁠Cody Rhodes – Royal Rumble (2023)

Cody Rhodes made a surprise entry at the 2023 Royal Rumble, eliciting an explosive reaction from the live crowd. Fans cheered wildly as he entered mid-match, reigniting old rivalries and establishing new storylines. Rhodes’ comeback immediately elevated the Rumble’s intensity and unpredictability. WWE leveraged his return to generate buzz across social media and televised programming. Fans appreciated his athleticism, precision, and charisma in the ring. Cody’s return reminded the audience of his dedication and impact in WWE. The comeback is widely considered one of the most exciting of the decade.

7. The Rock - Raw (2014)

The Rock made a shocking return on the October 6, 2014 episode of Raw, surprising fans worldwide. He confronted Rusev, cutting a promo filled with his signature charisma, immediately electrifying the crowd. His presence intensified ongoing storylines and added excitement to the show. Fans erupted with cheers and chants, celebrating the unexpected comeback. WWE used this moment to boost ratings and build momentum for upcoming events. The Rock’s return reminded everyone why he remains one of the most captivating personalities in wrestling history. This surprise appearance is remembered as one of the standout returns of 2014.

6.⁠ ⁠The Undertaker – Raw (2015)

The Undertaker returned on the January 26, 2015 episode of Raw, shocking fans and reigniting anticipation for future matches. His legendary presence immediately added drama and suspense to storylines. Fans chanted his name as he performed his signature moves, reaffirming his dominance in WWE. WWE used this comeback to build tension for upcoming pay-per-views and story arcs. Undertaker’s return reminded audiences of his unmatched streak and aura in the ring. The comeback received widespread praise for timing and execution. It remains one of the most memorable Raw returns in recent years.

5.⁠ ⁠John Cena – Royal Rumble (2017)

John Cena returned during the 2017 Royal Rumble following a storyline injury, immediately altering the match’s momentum. Fans erupted, chanting his name as he reasserted himself as a top WWE superstar. His comeback created new opportunities for WrestleMania storylines. Cena’s energy and in-ring presence reminded the audience why he had been a consistent main-event star. WWE used the moment to boost excitement for the Rumble and upcoming pay-per-views. The audience reaction highlighted his enduring popularity. This return is remembered as one of the most shocking and thrilling Rumble moments in recent memory.

4.⁠ ⁠Brock Lesnar – SummerSlam (2021)

Brock Lesnar returned at SummerSlam 2021, shocking the WWE Universe by attacking Roman Reigns immediately. Fans erupted at the sight of Lesnar’s dominance, showing both excitement and disbelief. His aggressive style and sheer power created tension for the main-event storyline. WWE used his return to elevate SummerSlam’s intensity and unpredictability. Lesnar’s presence instantly reshaped ongoing storylines and feuds. The audience reaction confirmed his unmatched ability to shock fans. This comeback remains one of Lesnar’s most memorable returns of the modern era.

3.⁠ ⁠Daniel Bryan – WrestleMania XXX (2014)

Daniel Bryan returned from injury at WrestleMania XXX, shocking fans by competing for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. His unexpected victory in the main event led to one of the most celebrated WrestleMania moments in history. The crowd erupted with chants and cheers, emotionally reacting to his triumphant return. WWE capitalized on the moment to create one of the most memorable storylines of the decade. Fans appreciated his technical skill, charisma, and underdog story. Bryan’s return symbolized perseverance and became an iconic moment in modern WWE.

2.⁠ ⁠Shane McMahon – WrestleMania 32 (2016)

Shane McMahon, who had left WWE in 2010, made a surprising return ahead of WrestleMania 32. He confronted his father Vince McMahon and sister Stephanie, demanding control of Monday Night Raw. Fans erupted in shock and excitement at seeing Shane back after six years. His return instantly created tension and drama in ongoing WWE storylines. WWE used this moment to elevate both family dynamics and main-event angles. The audience reacted with a mix of awe and anticipation, celebrating his audacious comeback. Shane’s return remains one of the most surprising and talked-about returns of the 2010s.

1. AJ Lee – SmackDown (2025)

AJ Lee made a surprising return to WWE on September 5, 2025, after nearly ten years away. She appeared on SmackDown in Chicago, immediately shocking the audience. AJ confronted Becky Lynch, reigniting their rivalry and involving her husband CM Punk. The return was teased through merchandise hints, adding to the suspense. This led to a mixed tag team match at Wrestlepalooza, where AJ and Punk defeated Lynch and Seth Rollins. Fans cheered as she used her signature Black Widow submission to win. AJ’s comeback was praised for being emotional, thrilling, and impactful