10 Big WWE Returns That Could Happen In 2017
8. Cody Rhodes
Cody Rhodes spent 10 years in WWE, but his career progression wasn't a solid path upwards. Though there were times during his tenure when it looked like he was on the verge of becoming a major player, there was also a ton of frustration. For two years, he had been playing the "Stardust" character - which he hated - and so in May of 2016 he requested and was granted his release.
Since his no-compete clause ended in August, Rhodes has been working pretty much everywhere - New Japan Pro Wrestling, TNA, Ring of Honor, EVOLVE, and of course, WhatCulture Pro Wrestling. He's done an amazing job of self-promotion, creating and strengthening the perception that he's the hottest free agent in the sport.
All of the buzz around Cody could be a reason for WWE to eat some crow and try to rehire the star. Cody seems very happy doing what he's doing, and has gone on record as saying that it would take a lot to bring him back to WWE, but maybe "a lot" is what the company is willing to offer.