The rumors of Rusev arriving on Smackdown Live have been going around for quite a long time now. It is being said that he was cleared to wrestle after quite a few weeks ago. But, due to some unknown reason, he was not brought into live television.
We have got the indications of the same when WWE teased his appearance with a storyline on the blue brand. He showed up demanding championship match at the Money in the Bank PPV. Many thought that it might have been a trick to add him to the ladder match for the prestigious briefcase. However, that was not the case, either.
Once the Smackdown-exclusive PPV was over, several sources claimed that Rusev will be back on Smackdown as part of this past edition. Quite surprisingly, that did not happen, either. This fuelled up the rumors speculating what’s store in the future of the former United States Champion.
According to PWInsider.com, The Bulgarian Brute was present at backstage on this past episode of Smackdown Live. But, since there’s no slot is vacant for him, he can’t be back on live television being a part of any storyline. It was also expected that upon return he will be involved in a rivalry against the WWE champion.
Since Jinder Mahal is the champion that is not likely. A heel vs. heel scenario for the WWE championship is not good at all. Randy Orton is still feuding with the Maharaja and will continue with it at least until the Battleground PPV. So, until then, there are fewer chances to witness him on Smackdown.
However, there’s one good news for Rusev. He will be back in the squared circle performing for the live events hosted by the Smackdown brand. It will start from this weekend onwards. In the upcoming house show in Everett, he will be part of a triple threat match. The match will be contested between Mojo Rawley, Rusev and Kevin Owens for the US title.
He is also being advertised for this upcoming Monday Night’s live event from Bakersfield, California. This one too is going to a triple threat match for the US title. This time Shinsuke Nakamura, KO and Rusev will square off for the championship.