10 Wrestling Facts We Didn't Know Last Week (May 17)
6. What The Undertaker Told Rusev Post-Greatest Royal Rumble
Rusev was The Undertaker's original opponent for last year's Greatest Royal Rumble special in Saudi Arabia before WWE changed their minds and replaced him with Chris Jericho. Then, because this situation totally needed to be even more messy, they switched things again and re-inserted Rusev.
Come crunch time in Saudi, the match ended up being a glorified 10-minute squash. It was the first 'Casket' match since 2015 (Daniel Bryan vs. Kane), and it was 'Taker's first since facing Big Show at Survivor Series 2008. Rusev told the Express newspaper that it was quite the honour to work with 'The Deadman' and put him over regardless of the stipulation.
Said 'Deadman' appreciated the Bulgarian's pride.
When picking The Undertaker's brains backstage afterwards, Rusev was surprised to hear the legend say, "You're really good". That was unexpected, and unprompted. 'Taker wanted to let Rusev know that he was on the right path. If only WWE creative felt the same.