15 WWE Returns That IMMEDIATELY Backfired
1. Shane McMahon (2023)
What is it with the McMahons and torn quads on pay-per-views they're not even advertised for? Vince shredded his legs when trying to sort out the messy finish between John Cena and Batista at Royal Rumble 2005. Years later, his son Shane collapsed to the mat in agony after shockingly returning for an impromptu match vs. The Miz at WrestleMania 39 in 2023. Like his dad, Shane-O had suffered an embarrassing injury.
He ripped his quad during the very first leapfrog spot and had to be replaced by Snoop Dogg. This is the kind of story an older lapsed fan who hasn't watched in years wouldn't believe. 'So, let me get this straight: Shane McMahon returned for a match in 2023, got injured and SNOOP DOGG just happened to be on hand as a substitute vs. The Miz?'. Yes, yes this happened in real life.
It wasn't a fever dream.
Shane's familiar, "Here comes the money" entrance music refrain will always get a pop. It's so memorable and catchy, but the pop fizzled by the time he was jousting with Miz and fans settled back into their seats. Those punters then watched as McMahon went for a leapfrog, his body gave out on him, and everyone had to call something else on the fly as Shane was helped to the back by medics.
This was undoubtedly one of the most bizarre segments in 'Mania history. Returning to action also backfired spectacularly on Shane. He went from feeling on top of the world to spending the night in hospital. Sorry, a local medical facility.
What other WWE returns immediately backfired? For more wrestling, check out 10 Untouchable WWE Stars Who Got Special Treatment and 10 WWE Wrestlers In Danger Of Missing Out On WrestleMania 41!