Departing WWE in 2005, The Dudley Boyz went on to spend considerable time in TNA. There, the kayfabe brothers were redubbed 'Team 3D', and had as much success as they had previously experienced in both WWE and the original ECW. Years later, they launched respective singles careers in the promotion, with Bubba notably becoming TNA Heavyweight Champ as 'Bully Ray'. After they'd left TNA, a lot of wrestling fans expected that The Dudley Boyz would make the odd appearance back in WWE. At the Royal Rumble, Bubba Ray entered the match, although D-Von was nowhere to be found. Some were disappointed, feeling the company missed a trick by not booking a nostalgic tables spot during the match. That would be rectified later in the year. In August, The Dudleyz made their return to WWE. Instead of simply existing as a one-off nostalgia gig, the beloved duo were coming back on a full time basis. Better yet, they were programmed to feud with The New Day, a hot heel act who were the reigning WWE Tag-Team Champions. The Dudleyz looked as good as ever, and their return is memorable for them looking like they hadn't missed a step.