Controversial Wrestler Makes Surprise WWE Return On NXT

Nobody saw this coming ahead of last night's show...

Lio Rush
WWE.com

Four months removed from his last televised WWE appearance, Lio Rush returned to action on last night's episode of NXT.

'The Man of the Hour' made a surprise comeback as Oney Lorcan's opponent in a Cruiserweight Championship number one contender's bout. An arguable Match of the Night unfolded, with the livewire duo working a breathless pace befitting the division, with Lorcan his usual aggressive, hard-hitting self, and Rush clearly eager to impress in his first televised match since 18 March.

Lio took the victory after countering Oney into a Spanish Fly, then nailing his Frog Splash for the victory. The fans loved him throughout, too.

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Rush's WWE hiatus began amidst reports of backstage heat in the company. In May, he removed all mentions of WWE from his social media accounts, having conducted an interview with Fightful in which he alleged, among other things, that he wasn't getting paid for merchandise sales, WWE weren't covering his travel expenses, and that someone within the promotion was trying to get him fired.

It looks like, for now, the two parties have resolved their issues, and it's good to see such a talented performer back on TV.

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Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.